Stress in Academic Leadership: U.S. and Australian Department Chairs/Heads

Abstract

University department chairs/heads in the United States and Australia function under increased uncertainty and stress: a diverse student population, funding shortages, demands for great quality, finding the upside to downsizing, and balancing academic/administrative roles. This paper examines the environmental pressures on academic department heads, suggests beneficial strategies that American and Australian chairs might learn from each other, and recommends ways in which department chairs might improve their functioning and reduce work-related stress.