The Role of Social Support in Psychological Well-being of University Teachers

Description

Page: 467-472

Jyoti Dudi, Poonam Yadav, and Sangeeta (Department of Human Development and Family Studies, I.C. College of Home Sciences
Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana)

In an age where dialogues and discussions about mental health and the protection of the rights of students are on the rise, it becomes necessary for us to talk about the mental health of teachers. As academic professionals, university teachers face numerous challenges in their work environment. These stressors can adversely affect their mental health and overall well-being. Therefore, understanding the role of social support in mitigating these negative effects becomes crucial. The research on social support emphasizes its multidimensional nature, encompassing emotional, instrumental, informational, and appraisal dimensions. Each dimension contributes uniquely to the psychological well-being of university teachers. However, despite the recognized importance of social support, challenges exist in effectively implementing support systems within university settings. Therefore, it is crucial for universities to prioritize the development and implementation of comprehensive social support programs that address the specific needs of their teachers. In conclusion, social support plays a vital role in promoting the psychological well-being of university teachers. By fostering emotional, instrumental, informational, and appraisal support, universities can create a supportive environment that positively impacts teachers’ mental health.