PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECT OF CONTRACT BREACH ON LECTURERSTRUST IN MANAGEMENT OF NATIONAL OPEN UNIVERSITY OFNIGERIAN ABUJA

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between psychological contract breach (PCB) and trust in management among lecturers in Nigerian universities, with a focus on the
National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN). Guided by Social Exchange Theory, the study explored how lecturers’ perceptions of unfulfilled organisational obligations, such as promotion, inadequate research support, and workload imbalance, affect their trust in university management. quantitative research design was employed, with data collected through structured questionnaires. From a
population of about 450 lecturers, a sample of 220 was selected. Data were analysed using Structural Equation Modelling to test the hypothesised relationships. The results revealed that PCB has a significant negative effect on lecturers’ trust in
management (β = -0.68, p < 0.001), and the specific dimensions are promotion, research support, and workload each significantly reduce trust. The model explained 46% of the variance in trust, indicating strong explanatory power. These findings confirm that perceived breaches of the psychological contract undermine lecturers’ confidence, engagement, and organisational commitment. Based on the results, the study recommends that universities strengthen promotion practices, enhance research support, balance workload, improve communication, and institutionalise policies to ensure fulfillment of lecturers’ expectations. Implementing these strategies can enhance trust, improve lecturer satisfaction, and foster a stable and productive academic environment. The study contributes to organisational behaviour literature by providing context-specific insights into psychological contract breaches in Nigerian universities and offers actionable guidance for university administrators to
improve lecturer–management relations.