The University of Phoenix College of Doctoral Studies has released a new white paper titled “Rebuilding the Social Contract.” The paper, authored by TaMika Fuller, DBA, and Victoria Lender, DBA—both alumni of the college—examines how factors such as burnout, limited career development opportunities, and perceptions of low autonomy contribute to eroding trust in the workplace. It also discusses ways leaders can rebuild confidence and retention among employees during a period marked by rapid technological change and increased use of artificial intelligence.
The white paper uses data from the 2025 Career Optimism Index study, which surveyed more than 5,000 workers and 500 employers. The authors highlight leadership strategies aimed at reducing burnout and restoring trust in organizations.
“Trust at work is built when organizational values show up as everyday decisions, especially decisions about workload, growth and transparency,” said Fuller. “When employees feel stuck or micromanaged while navigating constant change, burnout rises and trust declines. Leaders can reverse that by investing in skill development, meaningful mobility, and institutional practices that support employee well-being.”
Lender added: “Rebuilding the social contract is about improving systems. Organizations can strengthen trust by creating clearer pathways for career development, involving employees in decisions that affect their work, and setting straightforward guidance for responsible AI adoption so people understand how technology will support their careers.”
The full white paper is available on the University of Phoenix Career Institute webpage or through its Research Hub.
Fuller serves as a research fellow at the Center for Educational and Instructional Technology Research at University of Phoenix. She also chairs a department at Tarrant County College and teaches economics and business courses. Lender works in supply chain management education across several universities.
University of Phoenix provides higher education primarily for working adults with both online delivery options and a physical campus based in Phoenix, Arizona. The institution offers more than 100 career-focused programs tied to over 300 professions according to its official website. Since its founding in 1976 it has focused on flexible learning solutions for underserved communities and holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission dating back to 1978.
