ORGANIZATIONAL DEVIANCE IN NIGERIAN UNIVERSIT

This study examined emotional exhaustion and deviant workplace behaviour among university lecturers, using the University of Benin and Benson Idahosa University, Benin city, Edo state. Specifically, the study aimed at ascertaining the level of emotional exhaustion, and deviant workplace behaviour among the University lecturers, while also ascertaining the linear relationship or the extent at which deviant workplace behaviour impacts on the emotional exhaustion of lecturers. The study adopted a survey research design which entail the use of structured questionnaire in obtaining responses from a study population. A total of 150 copies of questionnaire were distributed to lecturers in the selected institutions, out of which 126 were recovered and used form for the analysis. The data so obtained were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics; simple percentage and frequency, and mean; while the linear regression model was employed in ascertaining the relationship between the study variables. The data were analyzed via the statistical software for social sciences (SPSS) version 20. Findings obtained after due analysis of the data retrieved from the research instrument showed that; University lecturers have a high level of emotional exhaustion. They often feel emotionally drained, used up, fatigued, burned out, frustrated and stressed out from their jobs. This most times is closely associated with the nature and myriad of workloads that are encumbered with. The study therefore recommends that Universities should prioritize the mental health and well-being of their lecturers. They should establish and promote mental health programs, counselling services, and stress management workshops to help lecturers cope with emotional exhaustion. Furthermore, they should create a supportive environment where they can seek help and guidance when needed. University authorities should conduct regular assessments of lecturer workloads and ensure they are reasonable and manageable. They should consider hiring more faculty or providing additional resources to reduce the burden on lecturers.