INFLUENCE OF PRINCIPAL-TEACHER CONFLICT ON TEACHERS JOB PERFORMANCE IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN ANAMBRA STATE

Abstract

This study examined the influence of principal-teacher conflict on teachers job performance in secondary schools in Anambra State. Three research questions guided the study. They sought to:  identify the causes of conflicts between principals and teachers in public secondary schools; determine the positive influence of the conflicts between principals and teachers on teachers job performance in public secondary schools; and determine the negative influence of the conflicts between principals and teachers on teachers job performance in public secondary schools. The research adopted survey research design. Questionnaire was used to obtain relevant information from 230 respondents in the study area. The Questionnaire had 61 items. The data collected were presented in tables and analysed using mean. The findings revealed that, among others, some of the causes of principal-teacher conflicts are: principal’s indifference to teachers’ problems, poor communication in the school, role ambiguity or lack of clarity in roles and responsibilities, and principal’s high-handedness in school administration; the positive effects of principal-teacher conflicts include: stimulant for increased teacher knowledge and skills, and consequent schools’ productivity, checks on principals complacency. It was also found out that some of the negative effects of principal-teacher conflicts, are that it sometimes reduces teachers commitment, and it gives rise to dissatisfaction and frustration among teachers. Ultimately, it was ascertained that principals discussion with teachers before certain decisions are taken; good human relationship between principals and teachers; involvement of school board and PTA members for school administration; and mediation (involving both parties in discussing how best to resolve existing conflict) are some of the strategies for managing conflicts between principals and teachers. Consequently, it was recommended that the appropriate authorities, school principals, and teachers should ensure that there are Teachers representative councils (TRC), established for the management of conflict in the school, this will help reduce and check any form of biased tendency and as well create the spirit of peaceful coexistence and teamwork.