Impact of Spiritual Leadership on Stress Among University Teachers Through Organizational Trust

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the relationships between spiritual leadership, trust, and stress in two private-sector universities located in Lahore, Pakistan. The sample consisted of 375 participants. Data was collected through surveys, and the analysis was conducted using the Heys process macro in SPSS. The findings of the study revealed several important insights. Firstly, the study found a significant positive direct effect of spiritual leadership on trust, indicating that higher levels of spiritual leadership were associated with increased levels of trust among individuals within the universities. Furthermore, a significant negative direct effect of trust on stress was observed, suggesting that higher levels of trust were linked to lower levels of stress among participants. Additionally, the study identified trust as a mediator in the relationship between spiritual leadership and stress. The mediation analysis highlighted that part of the influence of spiritual leadership on stress was transmitted through its impact on trust. Trust was found to play a significant role in mediating the relationship between spiritual leadership and stress levels in the context of these private-sector universities. Based on these findings, the study concludes that spiritual leadership plays a crucial role in fostering trust in the investigated universities. Moreover, trust serves as a protective factor against stress, indicating that individuals who perceive higher levels of trust experience reduced levels of stress. These results have implications for leadership practices within educational institutions, particularly in the private sector in Lahore, Pakistan. Fostering spiritual leadership qualities and building trust among faculty members and administrators may contribute to reducing stress levels and promoting a healthier work environment. However, it is important to note that these conclusions are based on the specific context and sample of this study.