Effects of nursing apparel upon psychiatric inpatients' behavior

To examine the effects of three modes of nursing attire on the behaviors, e.g., aggressive behavior, leaving the unit against medical advice, of psychiatric inpatients, nurses were clad in white uniforms for 6 wk., then in street clothes for 6 wk., optional dress for 6 wk., street clothes for 3 wk., white uniforms for 3 wk., and optional dress for 3 wk. Data from each mode were combined, yielding three experimental conditions. Results showed the greatest rates of maladaptive behaviors occurred during the white uniforms condition followed by the optional and street clothes conditions, respectively. An explanation of this outcome based upon patient's expectations was presented.