Financial and Behavioral Impact of Missed Professional Appointments Among Academic Staff

Vollständiger Abstract

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Missed professional appointments among academic staff in tertiary institutions represent a significant challenge affecting institutional efficiency, career progression, and workplace behavior. This study examined the financial and behavioral impacts of missed appointments among 349 academic staff from four tertiary institutions in Edo State, Nigeria, using a cross sectional design and a validated researcher-designed questionnaire. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests. Findings revealed substantial financial consequences: 58.5% reported loss of allowances/honoraria, 53.3% missed grant/research funding opportunities, 61.0% lost professional development prospects, and 65.0% experienced negative effects on promotion/salary progression. Behaviorally, 61.9% noted impacts on promotion eligibility, 67.0% missed development opportunities, yet 75.1% acknowledged that regular attendance enhances professional image, with 77.7% making conscious efforts to improve participation. Chi-square tests showed significant associations between socio-demographic characteristics (gender, age, rank, experience, institution) and both financial impact (χ² = 18.742, df = 10, p = 0.043) and behavioral impact (χ² = 14.209, df = 6, p = 0.027). The study concludes that missed appointments lead to tangible financial losses and behavioral disruptions but can also prompt positive self-regulatory responses. Tertiary institutions should implement strategies to enhance accountability, time management, and attendance to improve productivity and staff well being.