Collegiality at Mid-Career: Social Networks and Informal Structures in Academic Departments

• In Event: Public Scholarship and Social Networks

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine faculty collegiality at mid-career and understand how particular dimensions of collegiality can foster faculty vitality. Previous research suggests that mid-career faculty may struggle to maintain their vitality, as they are susceptible to a plateauing trap, characterized by diminished focus and reduction in motivation. Our study findings suggest that collegial work environments can help faculty avoid a mid-career slump. Based on interviews with 30 mid-career faculty, findings suggest that informal relationships within academic departments, as well as participation in faculty development programs and interdisciplinary research centers, comprise important sources of collegiality, which in turn, strengthen specific dimensions of vitality.

Authors

• Anne Marie DeFelippo, Salem State University

• Jay R. Dee, University of Massachusetts Boston