Research Symposium

BIO

Eda Frrokaj is a second-year Psychology student at Florida State University on the Pre-Nursing track. Originally from Jupiter, Florida, she is a participant in UROP, conducting undergraduate research under the mentorship of Elizabeth L. Blue. Her research focuses on emotional and physical exhaustion among Early Childhood Educators (ECE) and examines how workplace stressors, emotional labor, and colleague interactions have combined effects on educators' well-being.

Through UROP, Frrokaj has gained experience in research design, qualitative data coding, and thematic analysis while developing a greater understanding of the rigorous emotional and physical labor of Early Childhood Educators. She plans to continue expanding her interests in psychology and health sciences as she pursues a long-term career in nursing, hoping to apply research methodologies to patient care and well-being.

Emotional Exhaustion Among Early Childhood Educators

Abstract

Early Childhood Education (ECE) educators are valuable for children’s social, emotional, and cognitive development. Despite the significant role ECE educators play in development, many experience physical and emotional exhaustion. This study examines the relationships among the work environment, colleague interaction, and their combined effects on ECE educators’ physical and emotional exhaustion. Data collection was conducted in three phases: an initial 10-question demographic survey, followed by participant interviews that focused on emotional experiences in the workplace, and a 40-question post-interview survey (the Professional Quality of Life and the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire). A total of seven ECE participants, ranging in age, years of experience, and level of education, participated in the survey and interview process. Interview data were analyzed using thematic analysis, with transcripts systematically coded to identify recurring patterns and themes related to educators’ experiences of physical and emotional exhaustion. Interview findings revealed that ECE educators described physical and emotional exhaustion as an ongoing, cumulative experience influenced by emotional labor and workplace stressors. However, quantitative measures did not support these findings, indicating that teachers are satisfied with their work even in demanding work environments. Conducting this research is crucial for a better understanding of the ECE educator experience, aiding the development of workplace interventions and support.

Keywords: Early Childhood Education, Emotional Exhaustion, Compassion Satisfaction