Prevalence of Workplace Incivility: Evidence from the Gambia Public Senior Secondary Schools

Abstract

Studies have shown that workplace incivility is widespread and linked to several negative outcomes. However, people perceive it differently due to cultural variability. The objective of this research is to examine the prevalence of the phenomenon among teaching and administrative staff in the Gambian public senior secondary schools. The focus is on the Greater Banjul Area, comprising two administrative regions, and the West Coast Region. These two regions are the most populous, hence with the highest number of secondary schools in the country. Data was gathered using primary and secondary sources, with a final response rate of about 99% (n = 252). The results obtained showed moderate widespread incivility in public senior secondary schools in The Gambia.
These findings are at variance with conventional assumptions by suggesting that employees may endure workplace incivility without necessarily resorting to other negative reactions, a response that appears to be mediated by culturally embedded norms and values. The study highlights the need for proactive organizational strategies focused on creating a meaningful work environment, a respectful workplace culture, and targeted leadership development in the education sector.