Academic state of anomie in gender studies: masked and expressed emotions within the academic environment in Turkey

Abstract

Academics in Turkey face relentless demands for productivity and competition, exacerbated by neoliberal and anti-gender ideologies. These pressures erode well-being, fostering isolation and self-doubt. This study examines the lived experiences of Gender Studies scholars—our closest colleagues—who navigate both an oppressive political climate and rising anti-gender sentiments. Our findings reveal emotional and physical distress: exhaustion, stress, anxiety, guilt, and alienation. Yet, higher education institutions fail to address these struggles, highlighting a gap between academics’ needs and institutional policies. This neglect perpetuates a state of anomie, where scholars internalize academia’s structural failures as personal shortcomings. Ultimately, we argue that unspoken power hierarchies and personal sacrifices reinforce this toxic cycle, forcing academics to bear the burden of systemic failures.