Examining Workplace Bullying in Higher Education

Authors

  • Jason Walker Adler University
  • Zahra Moradi University Canada West
  • Deborah Circo University of Nebraska (Omaha)

Abstract

This full research paper examines workplace bullying in higher education institutions, analyzing faculty and staff experiences across various demographic factors. The presentation will share findings from a comprehensive study that investigates the prevalence, forms, and impacts of workplace bullying in academic settings. Results highlight the unique challenges faced by different demographic groups and the institutional factors that contribute to or mitigate bullying behaviors. Recommendations for creating healthier academic work environments will be provided.

Author Biographies

Jason Walker, Adler University

Dr. Jason Walker is a leading expert in mental health and organizational psychology, serving as an associate professor and program director of graduate studies in industrial-organizational and applied health psychology at Adler University in Vancouver, Canada. A contributing writer for Forbes and a published scholar, he focuses on workplace issues such as violence, bullying, and harassment. With over 20 years of experience and dual doctorates in general and clinical psychology, Dr. Walker's research on trauma-informed practices and workplace violence is widely published. He also teaches as an adjunct clinical professor at City University of Seattle.

Zahra Moradi, University Canada West

Dr. Zahra Moradi is an accomplished educator and researcher with nearly a decade of experience in academia, specializing in Biology and Ecology. Her work with diverse plant species and ecosystems has shaped her expertise, while her intellectual curiosity and passion for teaching have driven her success as both a researcher and an educator. Combining her Ph.D. with an MBA, Dr. Moradi has enhanced her leadership skills and brought a creative, interdisciplinary approach to her academic pursuits. Currently, she serves as an Assistant Professor at University Canada West and an Adjunct Professor at Adler University, where she integrates her research and teaching to inspire and empower students.

Deborah Circo, University of Nebraska (Omaha)

Dr. Deborah Circo is an Assistant Professor of Social Work at the University of Nebraska-Omaha, specializing in health and mental health policy and practice, forensic social work, and clinical social work with individuals. She holds a PhD in Developmental Psychology from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, an MS in Psychology from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, a Master of Social Work from the University of Nebraska-Omaha, and a BS in Criminal Justice from the University of Nebraska-Omaha. Her research focuses on bullying in the workplace, bullying in academia, and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Additional Files

Published

2025-09-12

Issue

Vol. 2 No. 1 (2025): 2025 PDGIA / IDGI Conference Proceedings

Section

2025 Conference Proceedings

License

Copyright (c) 2025 Jason Walker, Zahra Moradi, Deborah Circo

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.