The manager's solitude and the creation of social capital

Mutual support networks among school principals in vulnerable contexts

Abstract

School leadership in highly vulnerable contexts is often characterized by marked professional isolation, known as “the loneliness of the administrator,” a phenomenon that negatively affects the quality of educational processes. Within this framework, the purpose of this essay is to interpret how horizontal interaction and peer support serve as a mechanism for building social capital and overcoming isolation among Venezuelan school administrators. Methodologically, an exploratory-interpretive qualitative study was conducted, based on the Participatory Action Research (PAR) approach. The study was conducted during the 2024–2025 period with the participation of six administrators from the “Alí Primera” Educational Circuit, located in the Monagas municipality of Guárico state, Venezuela. Data collection methods included logbooks, reflection circles (through ten biweekly sessions), focus groups, and cross-visits. Furthermore, criteria of scientific rigor—credibility, transferability, confirmability, and dependability—were ensured, along with fundamental ethical considerations, such as informed consent and confidentiality. Theoretical saturation was reached in the fourth working session. Among the main findings is an evolutionary trajectory that moves from institutional isolation and initial mistrust toward the consolidation of a mutual support network. This network is based on the principles of horizontality, confidentiality, and the development of a shared purpose. Throughout this process, there was evidence of strengthened perceived self-efficacy, reduced professional isolation, and an enhanced capacity for collaborative territorial management. These results confirm that social capital among peers serves as a key framework for professional development. As a final reflection, we propose the intentional creation of mutual support networks that foster the transformation of individualism into collective synergy.