Well-being among Arab teachers in Israel during the COVID-19 pandemic: a mixed-methods study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Studies on minority-majority relations traditionally focus on the hegemonic group’s influence on everyday experiences. In this investigation, we focused on how Arab teachers in Israel were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic by examining their well-being during that period. The study used a mixed-methods design comprising a cross-sectional survey (N = 299) and in-depth interviews (N = 24) among Arab teachers during the third lockdown in Israel. The quantitative results indicated that giving teachers more support at work boosted their emotional well-being. In the regression model, the following significant factors explained 20% of the variance in perceived emotional well-being: female gender, teaching seniority, digital literacy, job support, and resilience. The qualitative findings showed the importance of extended family, particularly during the pandemic. In addition, all participants reported that their religious faith helped them cope during the crisis. The research findings point to the unique need for resources to promote well-being among Arab teachers working under stress.