Communicating Support: Examining Perceived Organizational Support among Faculty Members with Differing Appointment Types

Abstract

Given the changing landscape of postsecondary faculty employment, institutions benefit from understanding how organizational policies and behaviors affects the faculty’s perception of organizational support. Using data from faculty members, including those with contingent and part-time appointments, at a single institution in the western United States, this study examined how the faculty’s perceptions of structures and behaviors at the departmental, college, and campus levels affect their perception of organizational support. Results suggest that part-time faculty members are significantly less likely to feel supported; however, as their perceptions of being valued by college and senior administrators increase, so do their perceptions of support. Findings suggest avenues for organizational leaders to promote commitment among all faculty members.