Bullying and “Badvising” in Higher Education
Abstract
Most academic advisors intend no harm but do not realize the impact an insulting or discourteous comment can have on a student. In this study, graduate students discussed their undergraduate academic advising experiences and many described negative academic experiences. Some faculty advisors openly criticized other majors to students. Other students felt belittled by their advisors. A continuum of badvising is described, including minimal advising, neglectful advising, and advising that becomes bullying. The overarching theme is that ineffective advisors are more interested in telling than listening.