An Analysis of Academic-Related Occupational Stress Among College Faculties in Ernakulam City

Abstract

Occupational stress has emerged as a growing concern in the academic profession, significantly affecting the mental well-being and professional efficiency of college faculty. This study aims to analyze the levels, sources, and impact of academic-related occupational stress among college teachers in Ernakulam City, Kerala. With the evolving demands of higher education—including increased teaching loads, administrative responsibilities, research pressures, and student engagement—faculty members often experience heightened stress levels that can lead to burnout, job dissatisfaction, and reduced performance. The research employs a descriptive survey method, gathering quantitative data from a representative sample of college faculty across various institutions in Ernakulam. A structured questionnaire was developed to assess key stressors linked to academic responsibilities such as curriculum delivery, assessment duties, publication expectations, and time management challenges. Demographic factors including age, gender, teaching experience, and type of institution (government, aided, or self-financing) were also considered to identify variations in stress patterns. Preliminary findings indicate that academic workload and administrative duties are the most significant contributors to occupational stress, with noticeable differences based on institutional type and experience level. Furthermore, the study highlights the lack of institutional support mechanisms and work-life balance policies as key areas of concern. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of how academic responsibilities impact the mental health and job satisfaction of college faculty. It also provides practical insights for policymakers and institutional administrators to develop targeted interventions aimed at reducing stress and promoting a healthier academic work environment.