Interpersonal relations between principals and teachers: communication, tension, and attitudes in a women's religious teaching order

Master of EducationAn atmosphere of mutual trust and openness of communication between principal and teacher is considered highly important for the effective functioning of a school. However, educationalists have expressed concern that the hierarchical administrative structures of schools may hinder such open communication, and hence affect principal-teacher relationships. This investigation is concerned with communication and interpersonal attitudes between principals and teachers. The 85 principals and teachers surveyed were members of a group of teaching Sisters (or "nuns"). The principal and teacher(s) of a particular school usually lived together. A study of relevant literature and research concerned relationships between aspects of communication (including conflict resolution), tension, and such interpersonal attitudes as trust, respect and liking. The effects of living and working together, and of status differences between principal and teacher, were considered. Appropriate models of inter-relationships between variables were discussed, a bi-directional Model A was proposed, and relevant hypotheses presented. Derived uni-directional models B and C indicated the possible effects of communication and tension on interpersonal attitudes. Data were obtained by means of a self-administered questionnaire. Correlational analysis of the data was used to examine specific hypotheses. Subsequent path analysis led to modification of Models B and C. The results were seen to have implications for principals and teachers in school, and also for persons living and working together. These implications were related to current educational trends, and directions for further research were indicated