An Investigation into Workplace Harassment and Its Impact on Performance and Attitudes of University Teachers and Students in Southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Abstract

This study investigated the perceptions and impact of workplace harassment, specifically verbal abuse and discrimination, on the performance, skills, and attitudes of teachers and students in public sector universities located in the southern region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Employing a descriptive research design, the study used a stratified sampling technique to select a representative sample of 694 participants, including BS, MPhil, and PhD students, as well as faculty members from five universities. Data were collected using a structured 7-point Likert scale questionnaire and analysed through descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, and multiple regression using SPSS. The findings revealed that verbal abuse and discrimination were perceived as significant forms of workplace harassment across all academic levels and genders. While statistical analysis showed no significant gender-based differences in perceptions, a considerable number of respondents, especially students, reported being undecided about their experiences, suggesting a potential lack of awareness or uncertainty in identifying harassment. The study highlighted the urgent need for institutional reforms, including policy development, awareness programs, and confidential reporting mechanisms, to address the normalised and often unreported nature of harassment in academic settings. The findings underscore the importance of fostering a supportive and respectful educational environment to enhance the well-being and productivity of university stakeholders.

Keywords: workplace harassment, verbal abuse, discrimination, university teachers, students, performance, higher education, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa