THE IMPACT OF WORKPLACE STRESS ON EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT AMONG MEDICAL DOCTORS IN A NIGERIAN PRIVATE UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL: A FIGHT, FLIGHT, OR FREEZE PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

This study examines the impact of workplace stress on employee engagement among medical doctors in a Nigerian private university teaching hospital, using the Fight–Flight–Freeze (FFF) framework. The study examines the primary sources of workplace stress among medical doctors in a private university teaching hospital; it analyzes how stress responses mediate the relationship between stress and engagement. The study also quantifies workplace stresses‘ effects on employee engagement dimensions. The study employed a mixed-methods design, quantitative data were collected via structured surveys measuring stress, engagement, and stressresponse behaviors, while qualitative data were obtained through in-depth interviews. Stratified and purposive sampling technique were used to select 200 participants for the study. The results
were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results indicate a significant negative correlation between stress and engagement, with high stress levels linked to reduced job satisfaction, morale, and organizational commitment. Stressors included excessive workload, role ambiguity, resource shortages, and inadequate managerial support. Behavioral responses varied: doctors exhibiting ―fight‖ responses demonstrated proactive coping and higher engagement, while those adopting ―flight‖ or ―freeze‖ responses showed withdrawal, indecision, and disengagement. Qualitative findings highlighted stress as both a motivator and a deterrent, shaped by organizational culture and support systems. The study concludes that targeted
interventions—such as workload redistribution, resilience training, and robust support
networks—are essential to mitigating stress and enhancing engagement in high-pressure healthcare environments. Findings contribute to stress and engagement theory by integrating the FFF model with organizational behavior insights, offering practical guidance for hospital administrators and policymakers.