Occupational stress among teachers of learners with special needs

This study assessed the prediction of occupational stress through personality traits, gender and occupational stress among teachers of learners with special needs (TLSN) from the southwest, Nigeria. The transactional stress theory provided a framework for the study. Data were collected through a paper-pencil self-completed questionnaire. Data collected were analysed by descriptive and inferential statistics at 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and p < 0.05. The response rate was 94.4%. A total of 287 male and 185 female TLSN participated in this study. Findings revealed a significant association between extraversion, agreeableness; openness, conscientiousness, neuroticism and occupational stress of TLSN. Participants with extraversion and openness both has highest likelihood of exhibiting occupational stress. Male TLSN had a greater likelihood of exhibiting occupational stress. The study concluded that male TLSN with extraversion and openness personality traits has high proportion of occupational stress. Based on the findings, appropriate recommendations were made.