Psychological Safety: The Research (Part 1)
Beyond Self Care
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music & Audible or Spotify!
Or subscribe here for an email with each episode!
In this episode, Gail Markin, Caroline Picard, and Dr. Fei Wang dive into the critical topic of psychological safety in the workplace. Dr. Wang, an associate professor at the University of British Columbia, shares insights from his research on school leadership, exploring how the concept of psychological safety, traditionally studied in other fields, applies to school principals and vice principals. The discussion covers the challenges these administrators face when making difficult decisions, the invisible barriers to speaking out, and the impact of hierarchical structures on their well-being. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the factors that influence psychological safety in educational settings and the strategies administrators can use to navigate challenges.
“The hierarchical structure of the organization came out as the top contributor to the impact on psychological safety, especially for middle managers like school principals.”
Show Notes:
Guest Dr. Fei Wang (full bio) is an associate professor at the University of British Columbia.
Defining Psychological Safety:
"Psychological safety refers to the level of comfortability people have to either speak out or speak up without fear of negative consequences." - Dr. Fei Wang
Research on School Administrators mentioned in the podcast: Dr. Wang shares findings from his study on psychological safety among school principals, highlighting concerns about decision-making, relationships with senior leadership, and the impact on career trajectories. Link to an infographic summary of his research highlights.
Part 2 of the conversation coming Aug 30th - subscribe to be notified.
“When systems are getting in the way of psychological safety we need systems solutions... not self-care!”
