The Effect of Workplace Stress on Job Performance of University Teachers: The Mediating Role of Happiness

Abstract

Workplace stress is a significant concern in the higher education sector, with the potential to negatively affect the job performance of university faculty. Common stressors include high teaching loads, administrative duties and ongoing pressure to publish scholarly work. This study explores the relationship between workplace stress and job performance among university teachers in Pakistan, with a specific focus on the mediating role of happiness. Using a purposive sampling method, data were collected from 280 registered university faculty members. Validated scales were employed to assess workplace stress. Happiness and job performance. The data were analyzed using SPSS, including regression and mediating analysis. Findings revealed that workplace stress is negatively associated with job performance and significantly reduces levels of happiness. In contrast, happiness was found to have positive association with job performance and partially mediated the relationship between workplace stress and performance. These results suggest that enhancing faculty happiness may buffer the adverse effects of stress on professional effectiveness. The study contributes to organizational and educational psychology by emphasizing the importance of emotional well-being in academic settings. Practical implications include the need for institutional policies and support systems aimed at reducing stressors and fostering a positive work environment to enhance faculty productivity and well-being.