TEACHER STRIKES IN STRIKE-PRONE STATES

BRUCE VANDERPORTEN AND W. CLAYTON HALL

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DOI: 10.2190/3A6P-CNNE-FC98-WXFM

Abstract

From 1972 to 1981, nearly two-thirds of teacher strikes took place in five states. This study is a statistical investigation of these strikes. The theory applies Hicks's bargaining model to teacher negotiations. Time-series data are pooled for the five strike-prone states. The evidence suggests that teachers strike for economic reasons, with declining real wages being the most important motive. By creating an uncertain bargaining environment for both teachers and school boards, high inflation also leads to strikes. Teachers' decisions on strikes are responsive to the political environment, with more strikes called when the Democratic Party controls state government. Concern over working conditions, as measured by class size, does not seem an important cause of strikes.

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