A Gender Disparity in Experiencing Incivility and Engaging in Altruistic Behavior in Academia: Evidence from Selected Ethiopian Public Universities

Abstract

From previously published studies, one can notice inconsistencies regarding the experience of workplace incivility between males and females. Relying upon four theories (selective incivility theory, minority stress theory, pipeline theory, and deficits theory), the author aimed at cross-validating previous findings through examining gender differences in experiencing incivility from supervisors and co-workers with particular reference to Ethiopian public university faculties. The researcher utilized multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and survey data from 320 faculty members teaching in a higher education institution in Ethiopia. The findings of the study showed statistically significant differences with a small effect between male and female faculty members teaching in higher education institutions of Ethiopia with respect to experiencing overall incivility, uncivil behavior from coworkers, and engaging in altruistic behavior. Female faculty experienced a higher level of co-workers and overall incivility than their male counterparts, and no statistically significant difference was found with respect to principals’ incivility for both males and females. Additionally, it was found that female faculty members were more highly engaged in altruistic behavior than males. Since incivility or lack of respect in the workplace disrupts work patterns, diminishes the effectiveness of its victims and others, deteriorates social interaction, and leads to more intent, overt acts of workplace aggression, management bodies of each university should apply programs and policies reducing its harmful effect and promoting helping behavior among faculty.