Teachers’ perceived social-emotional competence as a vital mechanism of adult SEL

The significance of teachers’ social and emotional functioning is gaining recognition for its links with well-being, and its relevance to teachers’ effectiveness as educators and as builders of positive relationships and classroom environments. The overarching aim of this article is to spotlight factors that contribute to adult SEL and, by extension, the thriving of students and schools. We consider the concept of perceived social-emotional competence (perceived SEC), which is teachers’ belief in their ability to effectively conduct their social-emotional interactions at work. Examination of perceived SEC among teachers is now emerging and this article provides an initial review of this work. Our discussion extends to related beliefs including social-emotional self-efficacy, social goals, and emotion mindsets, reinforcing the importance of teachers’ social-emotional beliefs. Our review highlights the connection between these different social-emotional beliefs and teachers’ functioning more broadly. The article concludes with suggested practices to support teachers’ social-emotional beliefs and underscores the need for further research in this area.

Impact Statement

Teachers’ social and emotional functioning is increasingly recognized as vital to their well-being and instructional effectiveness. This article reviews emerging research on teachers’ perceived social-emotional competence—that is, teachers’ confidence in handling work-related social-emotional experiences and interactions. It also explores other social-emotional beliefs, linking them to important work-related experiences and outcomes. Findings suggest that nurturing these beliefs may enhance teacher well-being, teaching quality, and classroom dynamics.