The Relationship between Organizational Silence and Burnout among Academicians: A Research on Universities in Turkey

Abstract

The aim of this research is to analyze the relationship between organizational silence and burnout levels of academicians. The study group consisted of 190 academicians, who work in 17 state universities that are located in 15 different provinces of Turkey. Data were collected through Causes of Faculty Members’ Silence Scale and Maslach Burnout Inventory. The results of the study indicate that silence levels of academicians are medium and burnout levels are low. A positive correlation was identified between organizational silence and burnout levels. Multiple linear regression analysis demonstrates that silence scores were predicting emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and personal accomplishment. In order to reduce burnout to a minimum level in academy, university managers are offered to establish a culture, where academicians are allowed to express their opinions freely. In addition, the study provides suggestions for future research.