Depression and Stress among Early Child Care and Education Professionals: Results from Three Nationwide Surveys

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 11:45 am - Gold 1
  In Roundtable Session: Labor of Love, Weight of Care: Emotional Realities in Early Childhood Classrooms

Abstract

This study aims to examine the prevalence and predictors of depression and elevated stress among early care and education (ECE) professionals, using data from three nationwide surveys conducted in May 2021 (N=20,038), August 2021(49,168), and August 2023 (24,421) in the USA. Findings consistently show high prevalence rates for depression (ranging from 36.78% to 45.8%) and elevated stress (ranging from 16.66% to 22.84%) across the survey years. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that younger, multiracial, non-binary, and low-income professionals, as well as those working in for-profit centers, were consistently at higher risk. These findings demonstrate a significant and persistent mental health crisis within the ECE workforce, highlighting specific groups that are disproportionately affected and in urgent need of systemic solutions.

Authors

• Ayse Cobanoglu, Bogazici University

• Walter Gilliam, Yale University