Self awareness is a key element in the effectiveness of teacher performance. To a large extent, however, individual psychology and the growth process have been neglected in the preparation of teachers. Four guidelines can aid prospective teachers to gain strengths they will need in the classroom. The first is increasing student teachers' autonomy in the field, thereby providing the impetus for self direction, decision making skills, and development of responsibility. The second guideline promotes giving prospective teachers insights into the reality of the profession, including its legal implications, how to handle a crisis, and self help techniques. Increasing teachers' emotional and social competence is recommmended as the third guideline, which incorporates encounter group training and exposure to stressful situations while in laboratory conditions. The last guideline calls for increasing awareness and openness to experience through training in behavior therapy skills. (FG)