Meaning In Life and Workplace Spirituality as Intervention on Psychological Well-Being of Private Preschool Teachers in Malaysia

Abstract

The increased level of stress and job turnover rate among private preschool teachers in Malaysia has led to low psychological well-being. Based on previous research, it is suggested that meaning in life and workplace spirituality can contribute positively to an individual’s psychological well-being. The objective of this research is to understand the effect of meaning in life and workplace spirituality on preschool teacher’s psychological well-being and therefore introduce them as possible interventions for Malaysian preschool teachers’ psychological well-being. A qualitative approach with phenomenological design was adopted in this study, and online semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect data from eight participants who were recruited from private preschools in Malaysia. This study found that factors that help preschool teachers to develop their meaning in life and psychological well-being included having harmonious passion and social support from their family and friends. Besides, meaningful work, sense of connection with others, alignment with preschool’s values and perceived organizational support are elements from workplace spirituality that can also increase preschool teachers’ psychological well-being.