Work stress of teachers from primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong

The present study was developed to comprehensively investigate the occupational health problems among teachers of primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong. A random sample of 6000 teachers was generated from the database of Hong Kong Professional Teachers' Union (HKPTU) members. A self-administrated questionnaire was designed and sent by mail to the teachers of primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong, together with a cover letter and a reply paid envelope. A total of 1,710 usable questionnaires were returned. The results indicated that comparing with one year and five years ago, 91.6% and 97.3% of the responding teachers reported an increase of perceived stress level, respectively. Heavy workload, time pressure, education reforms, external school review, pursuing further education, and managing students' behaviour and learning were the most frequently reported sources of work stress. The four most frequently reported stress management activities were sleeping, talking to neighbors and friends, self-relaxing, and watching television, whereas the least frequently reported activity was doing more exercises or sports. The findings of this research could serve as a useful reference for the government and related organizations such as the Education and Manpower Bureau and Professional Teachers' Union when formulating the policies and strategies to help the teachers relieve and cope with their work-related health problems.