EXPLORING INNOVATIVE DEFENSE MECHANISMS AND COPING STRATEGIES AMONG TEACHERS IN URBAN EDUCATIONAL SETTINGS

Abstract

Defense Mechanisms and Coping Strategies serve a shared purpose of shielding individuals from emotional stress, yet they operate at different levels of consciousness, as outlined by psychologists. The holistic process of education is widely acknowledged for nurturing the mind, channelling emotions, and fostering a cohesive personality. Teachers shoulder the demanding responsibility of meeting the academic, social, and emotional needs of their students, necessitating traits such as empathy, adaptability, and ongoing professional growth. However, this multifaceted role exposes teachers to both physical and emotional stress, highlighting a global concern for equipping educators with effective strategies to manage emotional challenges amidst diverse student requirements. This study explores how teachers navigate stressful situations by employing coping and defense mechanisms, recognizing their interconnected roles in the adaptation process. It aims to uncover innovative and context-specific methods used by teachers to safeguard their emotional well-being and sustain their effectiveness in the classroom within the complexities of modern educational settings. The research also investigates variations in these strategies across different educational environments, encompassing urban, private, and public schools.