Psychological Distress And Intention To Quit: The Role Of Compensation Among Second-Cycle Institution Teachers In Cape Coast

Abstract

The primary aim of this research was to explore the connection between psychological distress, its dimensions, and the intention to quit among teachers in Second Cycle Institutions within the Cape Coast Metropolis. The study utilized a quantitative research approach with cross-sectional survey and an explanatory research design. It focused on teachers in second-cycle institutions in Cape Coast Metropolis, involving a total sample of 169 participants who completed a questionnaire as the data collection instrument. The study accomplished its objectives by employing a structural equation model. The findings of the study showed a positive and significant relationship between psychological distress and the intention to quit. Moreover, a positive and significant relationship was observed between psychological distress, its dimensions, and teachers' intention to resign. Furthermore, the study showed a positive and significant relationship between compensation and teachers' intention to quit. Importantly, the study demonstrated that compensation played a full moderating role in the relationship between psychological distress (both emotional and physiological) and the intention to quit. Therefore, compensation effectively moderated the relationship between psychological distress and the intention to quit. As a practical recommendation, the study suggested that secondary school principals in the Cape Coast Metropolis should actively implement measures aimed at enhancing teachers' commitment to remaining in the teaching profession.