Sabotage, silence, and siloed teaching: A case study on the effects of professional jealousy in university departments. A qualitative case study design.

Abstract

Background
Professional jealousy in academic institutions is a subtle yet destructive force that can compromise collaboration, erode morale, and ultimately affect teaching and learning quality. In university departments, it may manifest as sabotage, exclusion, or the withholding of knowledge, resulting in siloed teaching practices and fragmented academic cultures. This study investigates how professional jealousy affects interpersonal dynamics, teamwork, and academic productivity within a South African university department.

 Methods

A qualitative case study design was employed, focusing on one academic department in a South African university. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 15 academic staff members, purposively selected for their experience in teaching and departmental administration. Thematic analysis was applied to identify patterns of professional jealousy and their impact on collegial relationships, curriculum delivery, and institutional culture.

 Results

Three dominant themes emerged: (1) Sabotage and Undermining, where colleagues deliberately withheld resources or information to limit others' success; (2) Silence and Exclusion, involving non-participation in team teaching or refusal to collaborate; and (3) Siloed Academic Practice, where lecturers operated independently, resisting integration or interdisciplinary collaboration. Participants reported feeling emotionally drained, professionally isolated, and demotivated. These dynamics often disrupted curriculum coherence and discouraged innovation in teaching.

 Conclusion

Professional jealousy within university departments fosters a toxic work environment that weakens academic cooperation and negatively impacts student learning. When unchecked, it perpetuates isolation and impedes institutional transformation goals.

 Recommendations

Universities should implement structured conflict resolution and team-building programs, encourage transparent promotion and recognition systems, and establish departmental codes of conduct. Leadership should actively monitor interpersonal dynamics and promote a culture of shared success and academic integrity to mitigate the effects of professional jealousy.