ERIC Number: EJ874757
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2008-Jan
Pages: 21
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1541-6224
EISSN: N/A
Perceptions of Isolation among High School Principals
Howard, Molly P.; Mallory, Barbara J.
Journal of Women in Educational Leadership, v6 n1 p7-27 Jan 2008
This study addressed the perceptions of isolation among high school principals in Georgia. The data collection process, in which interviews were conducted, provided insight into the lived experiences of 10 principals. One of the findings was that high school principals were relieved, in a sense, to discuss their perceptions of the "loneliness" aspects of their jobs. The findings yielded greater understanding of the organizational culture in which high school principals work and the professional isolation as it relates to the culture of the high school. Understanding the professional and personal needs of principals is essential, as school systems attempt to recruit and retain quality school leaders for the demanding position of principal. Because five participants were female high school principals, gender issues associated with the male-dominated position were revealed. Not only did the research reveal the phenomenon of isolation among high school principals, but the analysis also provided insight into strategies principals employ to reduce the potential debilitating effects on job performance.
Descriptors: Professional Isolation, High Schools, School Culture, Job Performance, Gender Issues, Principals, Administrator Attitudes, Interviews, Work Experience, Work Environment, Collegiality, Gender Differences, Age Differences, School District Size, Marital Status, Coping, Time, Accountability, Administrator Role, Interpersonal Relationship
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: High Schools
Audience: Administrators
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Georgia
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A