Organisational culture and workplace bullying among non-academic staff at a South African University

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between organisational culture and workplace bullying among non-academic staff at a South African University. A quantitative research method was adopted and a sample size of 200 non-academic staff was randomly recruited. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire which consisted of questions from the Negative Acts Questionnaire and the Organisational Culture Assessment Instrument. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis. The hierarchical culture was found to be the dominant organisational culture and that workplace bullying incidences occurred weekly within the organisation. Regression analysis results showed a significant negative relationship between clan culture and workplace bullying while a positive and significant relationship was established between hierarchical culture and workplace bullying. Conversely, the link between adhocracy and market culture with workplace bullying was found to be insignificant. University top management was recommended to design internal policies with clear reporting procedures to eliminate workplace bullying incidences.