Illegitimate Tasks in Academia: A Phenomenological Study on the Experiences of Social Science Academics

The concept of “illegitimate tasks” (ILT) refers to tasks assigned to employees that fall outside their professional role definitions and are perceived as unnecessary or unreasonable. ILT has gained attention as a stress-inducing factor affecting employees’ well-being and sense of self, distinguishing it from other occupational stress sources. This study explores how social science academics in Türkiye perceive and experience ILT, their coping mechanisms, and the individual and organizational implications. A phenomenological study was conducted with 40 academics from various levels and institutions through semi-structured, in-depth interviews. Findings reveal that most participants view their profession as encompassing lecturing and research, with irrational tasks being more frequent than unnecessary ones. Research assistants and assistant professors bear the heaviest burden of such tasks. ILT causes were categorized into two groups: those related to human resource capacity and those stemming from organizational processes. ILT results in relational issues (deteriorating relationships, reduced tolerance), physiological effects (sleep problems, fatigue), psychological impacts (anger, worthlessness, depressive moods), and work-related consequences (role conflict, diminished reputation, reduced commitment). Addressing ILT requires supervisors to offer social support through clear communication, define job roles at the institutional level, and ensure fair task distribution. This study contributes to the ILT literature by examining its antecedents, effects, and mitigation strategies in academia.