Die bestuur van leerlingstres deur skoolhoofde in sekondêre skole in die Noord–Kaap

Abstract

Pupils experience a great deal of stress in our modern society. The level of stress among our high school pupils is alarming. The principal, as the chief executive of the school, has an obligation to manage stress in schools. Without the guidance of someone with the necessary training, pupils tend to resort to defence mechanisms which is a negative way of handling stress. The principal who has acquired knowledge of stress management skills, will be able to guide such pupils in overcoming stress. Thus managing stress and not allowing stress to manage them. In this study, five defence mechanisms and its symptoms have been discussed briefly as a negative means of handling stress. On the other hand, ten stress management skills have been discussed more extensively. An empirical research has been conducted. The aim was to determine the level of stress currently experienced by high school pupils. Secondly, the aim was to determine how principals relate to pupils who experience stress and the methods they use to help such pupils. The empirical research pointed out some problem areas: * The vast majority of principals are not qualified to relate to or guide such pupils in overcoming stress. * The majority of schools are situated in the country with low enrollment figures such as between 201-300 pupils. * Due to the above mentioned figures, such schools do not qualify for the post of a guidance teacher. Certain conclusions and recommendations have been made with regard to the management of stress in secondary schools.