Crisis in Education: Stress and Burnout in the American Teacher

Low morale and a high rate of attrition in education today are symptoms of ``teacher burnout,'' according to Farber, director of the clinical psychology program at Teachers College, Columbia University. The quality of education is reduced as many potentially good teachers choose new career paths rather than tolerate negative factors--disrespect, criticism from parents, low pay, lack of appreciation. In a professional study, Farber presents case histories and interviews with teachers, documenting that teachers are at a seemingly overwhelming disadvantage against pressures ranging from violence to religious fundamentalism. The book's discouraging findings are supplemented with suggestions for remedies. (Apr.)