Occupational Wellness in Special Needs Education: Utilizing an Exploratory, Descriptive Framework Within the Qualitative Domain of Research

Stress has often been in the spotlight in the work-place. However, international research, and specifically South African research, on this subject is scant. Given the lack of research pertaining to this aspect of wellness, this study was done to explore and describe occupational wellness in special needs, within the education sector. This knowledge could be valuable in order to avoid (and to manage) the factors causing occupational stress. The research methodology chosen for this study entailed semi-structured interviews with staff who work in the special needs education sector. The research found that staff experience job dissatisfaction, discontent and despondency, mainly due to organizational structure; occupational complexities; and leadership style. However, positive attributes that contribute to the staff occupational wellness such as the opportunities afforded the staff for their own growth, individual motivation, and work relationships were found.