Perception of Organizational Sycophancy in Universities: A Research on Academicians

Today, it is seen that unethical behaviors are diversifying and increasing in universities, which are accepted as value-based organizations. In this context, sycophancy, which is an unethical behavior in universities where the hierarchical structure is evident, emerges as an important issue in academic circles. The aim of this study is to examine the perception of organizational sycophancy in universities. In the study, 36 academicians were interviewed within the scope of qualitative research method. The answers given by the academics were processed in depth within the scope of the themes determined in accordance with the content analysis technique. The results of the study showed that sycophantic behavior is quite common in universities, that it leads to various negative consequences in the academic environment, and that there are many factors that lead to sycophantic behavior. In conclusion, organizational sycophancy is a phenomenon intertwined with academic success, cooperation and organizational culture in universities. The role of sycophantic behaviors, the attitudes of academics towards managers and the place of these attitudes in organizational structures is a topic that requires more research in academic circles. In this context, studies on sycophancy in universities provide important information for academic success and improvement of the work environment.