EXPLAINER - Back-to-school on strike: what are the psychological effects on teachers and students?

Most Ontario elementary and secondary teachers are calling for a strike vote in the fall in an effort to push stalled bargaining with the provincial government forward.

We asked Carole Sénéchal, Full professor at uOttawa’s Faculty of Education about the psychological effect of strikes on teachers and students at the beginning of the school year.

Q1: What are the psychological effects of strikes on teachers at the beginning of the school year?

C.S.: The psychological effects of strikes on teachers can be significant. Often, teachers go on strike out of obligation or solidarity to improve their working conditions. The lack of recognition for their role as educators can lead to consequences ranging from sadness to depression.
Some teachers, who have experienced this situation multiple times, may feel like they are not being heard and misunderstood in their legitimate requests for the well-being of students. This can result in a high rate of attrition among these teachers, pushing them to seek employment where they feel more valued.

Q2: What are the consequences for a teacher who chooses not to participate in a strike at the beginning of the school year?

C.S.: If a teacher refuses to participate in a strike at the beginning of the school year, they may face social consequences. They may see their social network diminish and even be excluded by colleagues due to their absence in the strike. Rejection by colleagues can have significant repercussions on their psychological well-being, leading to feelings of anxiety, worry, and insomnia.

Q3: How are students affected by strikes at the beginning of the school year?

C.S.:  Students are also impacted. While they might initially find it amusing to have an extended summer vacation, returning to class is often associated with the prospect of reuniting with friends and meeting new teachers in a new school environment. However, in the case of a strike, students find themselves in a situation of uncertainty, both for themselves and their parents. This uncertainty can result in demotivation towards learning. Additionally, it can be challenging to restore students' motivation and concentration after the conclusion of a strike, especially if it has lasted several weeks.

Members of the media may directly contact:

Carole Sénéchal
Full Professor, Faculty of education
Email: carole.senechal@uOttawa.ca