WORKPLACE BULLYING AND JOB ENGAGEMENT OF TEACHERS IN SELECTED PRIVATE SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN OJO LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Abstract

Bullying encompasses a range of harmful behaviours directed at individuals with the intent to cause pain, distress, or fear. In the workplace, it represents a significant social issue for organizations, as it undermines the cognitive, emotional, and physical capacity of teachers in carrying out their duties. This study explored how person-related bullying and work-related bullying each relate to job engagement, drawing on the Conservation of Resources (COR) Theory and the Job-Demand Resources (JD-R) Theory to explain the phenomenon. Using a descriptive survey design, data were gathered from 108 teachers across selected private secondary schools in Ojo Local Government Area of Lagos. Results revealed a negative correlation between workplace bullying and job engagement, showing that higher levels of bullying lead to reduced engagement. In other words, both person-related and work-related bullying contribute to teacher disengagement, with potentially damaging long-term consequences. Based on these findings, the study recommends regular monitoring of teachers’ activities by school management and training initiatives that promote acceptable workplace behaviours to help curb bullying.

Keywords: Job Engagement, Person-Related Bullying, Secondary School, Teachers, Work-Related Bullying.