TITLE:
The Impact of Occupational Stress on Job Satisfaction among Teachers and School Principals in Oman: Analyzing the Relationship and Role-Specific Differences
AUTHORS:
Ali Sulaiman Talib Al Shuaili
KEYWORDS:
Occupational Stress, Job Satisfaction, Teachers, School Principals, Oman, Vision 2040
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Social Sciences,
Vol.12 No.12,
December
31,
2024
ABSTRACT: This research investigates the relationship between occupational stress and job satisfaction among teachers and school principals in Oman, focusing on the differences between their experiences. Using a descriptive correlational design, data were collected from 646 participants (432 teachers and 214 principals) during the 2023-2024 academic year. Two validated tools, the Occupational Stress Scale and the Job Satisfaction Survey were employed to measure key variables. The findings reveal that principals experience higher stress levels due to administrative overload and role conflicts, while teachers report relatively higher job satisfaction, attributed to fewer managerial responsibilities and intrinsic motivators. A significant inverse correlation was observed between occupational stress and job satisfaction for both groups, with stress having a stronger adverse impact on principals. The research highlights the pressing need for policy interventions, such as reducing administrative burdens, decentralizing governance, and enhancing professional development opportunities. These measures aim to improve educators’ well-being and align with Oman’s Vision 2040 educational goals. Future research is recommended to explore longitudinal trends and regional comparisons.