Male primary teachers' fear and uncertainty surrounding physical contact. Issue 2 (17th February 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cruickshank, Vaughan
• Is Part Of: Education 3-13. Volume 47:Issue 2(2019)
• Page Start: 247
• Page End: 257
• Publication Date: 2019-02-17
• Subjects: Male primary teachers -- challenges -- physical contact; Education -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; Education, Primary -- Periodicals; Education, Elementary -- Periodicals; 372.942
• DOI: 10.1080/03004279.2018.1434221
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0300-4279

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Young children often look to their teachers for affection and acceptance, particularly if they are sick or upset. However, many male primary teachers do not feel comfortable with this aspect of their role. Consequently, many men choose not to make physical contact with their students in order to protect themselves from accusations of inappropriate behaviour. Using a mixed methodology of survey and interviews, this research provides an in-depth analysis of the fear and uncertainty male primary teachers experience in relation to physical contact, and the key factors that contribute to its difficulty.