Coping with stress in the principalship

Reports the responses of 643 public school principals in Canada to a survey on coping with administrative stress. A factor analysis of responses to the 26 item coping preference scale prepared for this study identified seven coping factors. Lists the ten most popular coping strategies and compares the coping preferences of principals with high scores on the administrative stress index with those with low scores. Uses multivariate regression analysis to identify eight coping items associated with administrative stress. Reveals that principals who set realistic goals, approach problems optimistically and objectively, engage in activities that support spiritual growth, take mini-vacations, and are actively involved in their communities, are likely to experience less stress. Analyses the responses to the coping scale with respect to several personal and environmental variables. Concludes that principals who have more extensive coping repertoires are more likely to be in better health and experience less stress.