Exploring Negative Teacher Behaviour towards Learners: The Long-Term Psycho-Emotional Effects

Abstract

The importance of teachers in a child’s development is well known. However, relatively little research has been conducted on their influence on a child’s psycho-emotional development, and almost none on long-term negative effects. This study aimed to add to the much-needed data in this regard. It focused on 115 respondents in Free State province, South Africa. The respondents consisted of primary and high school teachers, ranging in age from 20 to older than 65 (sd = 10.84). More female (n = 81, 70%) than male (n = 34, 30%) respondents participated, and most were white (n = 92, 80%). A mixed-methods research design was employed, making use of a self-compiled questionnaire. More than 50% of the respondents indicated that they continue to experience psycho-emotional impacts such as depression and feelings of inferiority inflicted by teachers many years prior. Limitations of the study are discussed, and recommendations are made on how to address this important problem.