Cultural foundations of teacher occupational health: the impact of confucian work dynamism on burnout through grit among Chinese teachers.

BACKGROUND

Previous research predominantly focused on burnout's proximal antecedents, with less known about distant influences such as cultural values. Confucian values, integral to Chinese culture, advocate for diligence and long-term commitment, potentially safeguarding against burnout by enhancing resilience and a robust work ethic. This study aims to examine the impact of Confucian Work Dynamism on teacher burnout through two facets of grit, which encompasses interest consistency and perseverance of effort.

METHOD

Utilizing a cross-sectional survey, 304 valid responses were collected from primary and secondary school teachers in China. The study employed descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) for data analysis.

RESULTS

Findings indicate a positive correlation between Confucian Work Dynamism and the perseverance of effort facet of Grit, while no significant correlation was found with interest consistency. Both facets of Grit were negatively associated with burnout, with perseverance of effort mediating the relationship between Confucian Work Dynamism and burnout.

CONCLUSION

Confucian Work Dynamism, particularly through perseverance of effort, serves as a protective factor against burnout. This study highlights the importance of cultural values in occupational well-being and suggests that interventions in collectivist cultures should continue to encourage a high level of persistence of effort while promoting greater consistency of interests.