A Multivariate Investigation of Coping Strategies among School Administrators

A multivariate investigation and comparison of the coping strategies used in dealing with stress and psycho-social factors among school administrators is the purpose of the current study. Personal and environmental independent variables were studied across 13 dependent variables. The participants were 214 school administrators who voluntarily responded to the Turkish version of the Coping Strategies Scales and a set of demographic questions. Results showed significant differences between men and women; among four age groups; and school type. Female administrators showed significantly higher preference for behavioral detachment; older administrators showed more preference for religion, whereas younger administrators preferred active coping and planning strategies. Those administrators who worked in middle schools scored higher on seeking instrumental and emotional social support compared to their colleagues who worked in elementary schools. Results are discussed in the light of current literature and suggestions were provided