Finding a Better Person-Environment Fit in the Academic Deanship

Individuals seek a balance between the demands of their institutions and the dimensions that make up their personalities and determine their needs (Getzels & Guba, 1957). Academic deans are no exception. Indeed, the fit (or lack of it) between the work environment and the unique characteristics of individuals asked to function within a given setting helps determine whether they experience levels of stress that move them forward in their work or suffer debilitating stress that leads to excessive physical and mental strain. This article examines the fit between academic deans and their work environments in the U.S. and Australia as it relates to multiple role stress factors affecting deans.