Elementary school teachers' reflections on shy children in the classroom

Abstract

This study explored teachers' perceptions of shy children in the classroom during the elementary school grades. Seven teachers (1 male, 6 female) from elementary schools located in geographically diverse areas of Canada participated in semistructured telephone interviews that explored their perceptions of and experiences with shy children in the classroom. Transcripts were analyzed for emerging themes about teachers' conceptions of shy children and teacher-shy child interactions. Findings suggest that shyness and social communication may influence elementary schoolteachers' classroom practices and the teacher-child relationship. Teachers' roles in shy children's socio-emotional functioning and academic success are discussed. © 2011 The Governors of the University of Alberta.