Social undermining in academia: experiences and effects

PurposeThe purpose of the paper is to explore the meanings and effects of social undermining as described by the faculty members of public and private universities of Pakistan.Design/methodology/approachThe study utilizes the qualitative approach using in-depth interviews of the faculty members to explore different meanings assigned to social undermining and the impact of these experiences on them.FindingsThe faculty members describe social undermining in terms of defamation and limiting of space for them at workplace. The impact of social undermining is directly felt on the emotional and overall well-being. It also affects the work performance of the faculty leading to behaviors like withdrawal and abstaining from voluntary activities.Research limitations/implicationsThe research is conducted in only two universities in the capital city. The experiences and views of faculty members in other universities particularly in small cities might be different.Practical implicationsThe study may be of help in terms of finding out the impacts of social undermining on faculty members in order to avoid such situations, hence, improving the motivation level of faculty. This will help managers to understand the phenomenon and find out appropriate strategies for a more harmonious and trustable work environment between people.Originality/valueThe study contributes to the literature by utilizing the qualitative approach that is not used much in this subject area. It is also one of the very first attempts of exploring the phenomenon in Pakistan, as per the best of authors’ knowledge.