Date of Graduation

5-2019

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (EdD)

Degree Level

Graduate

Department

Curriculum and Instruction

Advisor/Mentor

Pijanowski, John C.

Committee Member

Brady, Kevin P.

Second Committee Member

Lasater, Kara A.

Keywords

administrator; Arkansas; education; healthy educational leaders; human performance; principal; self care; self-care; sleep

Abstract

There is a potentially dangerous disassociation between human behavior, decision-making, and ethics and the notion that these fundamental aspects of what it means to be human originate simply as the functions of an organ. A deeper knowledge of the operation and limitations of the brain suggests biological input could possess the ability to unknowingly alter human behavior and effectiveness. This study utilizes a research-based understanding of the implications of human health and self-care habits on neurological, psychological, and behavioral function to examine the current practices of educational administrators across Arkansas while exploring systemic and job-based factors within the profession that could be competing with the establishment of good health. A mixed method design employing a statewide survey distributed in conjunction with the Arkansas Department of Education asked principals and assistant principals questions intended to uncover the current reality of administrative self-care. Qualitative data designed to identify commonalities in personal experiences was collected through open-ended questions in the survey and focus groups specifically constructed to hear from participants with diametrically opposed self-reported habits. At the convergence of the data representing the state of self-care and the qualitative experiences from practitioners is the potential for education and change that could promote healthier, more effective educational leaders.

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