The Effect of Counselors on the Reward System of Teachers

This article discusses the hidden, often manifest, animosity between counselors and teachers. A model and an empirical study by a sociologist are utilized in examining the need-reward system of teachers and counselors. It is suggested that in their work with students both teachers and counselors receive maximum gratification through similar processes, but in different contexts. Conflict between teachers and counselors is primarily due to the lack of recognition by either party of the differences in criteria of success in learning and work satisfaction. It is hypothesized that at the elementary school level these differences will be most pronounced but have the greatest opportunity for resolution.