WORK-RELATED STRESS IN ACADEMIA: EXPLORING ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT AS AN ORGANIZATIONAL RESOURCE IN THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN TIME MANAGEMENT AND OCCUPATIONAL STRESS

Abstract

This research explores how time management practices affect work-related stress among university faculty and investigates the mediating role of administrative support. While efficient time management can reduce stress, its effectiveness often relies on the support provided by the institution. The study surveyed 700 faculty members from eight public and eight private universities in Punjab, Pakistan, selected through a multi-stage sampling strategy. Employing a convergent parallel mixed-methods design, data were collected using structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Quantitative analysis was conducted using correlation and mediation techniques via PROCESS Macro Model 4, while qualitative responses were analyzed thematically using NVivo. Results reveal that well-implemented time management strategies significantly alleviate work-related stress, and administrative support enhances this effect. The findings underscore the critical role of institutional interventions and provide actionable insights for improving faculty well-being, enhancing productivity, and supporting professional development in higher education institutions.