Workplace bullying: the effectiveness of a workplace program
Sharon J Stagg1, Daniel J Sheridan, Ruth A Jones
1Shore Health System, Cambridge, MD, USA. sstagg@shorehealth.org
Workplace Health & Safety
|July 24, 2013
Summary
A cognitive rehearsal program reduced workplace bullying among nurses. While many nurses changed their behavior, more interventions are needed to address bullying in healthcare settings.
Area of Science:
- Nursing
- Occupational Health
- Healthcare Management
Background:
- Workplace bullying incurs significant financial costs for healthcare organizations, including nurse replacement.
- Occupational health nurses are positioned to lead initiatives for bullying prevention and elimination.
- Existing strategies for managing workplace bullying require further investigation and enhancement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the effectiveness of a cognitive rehearsal program in decreasing workplace bullying among nurses.
- To assess changes in nurses' behaviors and perceptions regarding workplace bullying following program participation.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study utilizing an Internet-based survey.
- Data collected 6 months post-completion of a 2-hour cognitive rehearsal program.
- Inquiry into witnessed bullying, personal behavior changes, and perceived bullying reduction.
Main Results:
- Half of the nurses reported witnessing bullying behaviors post-program.
- 70% of nurses reported modifying their own behaviors after the course.
- 40% of nurses observed a decrease in bullying behaviors over the 6-month period.
- While 70% felt capable of intervening, only 16% reported acting on bullying incidents.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive rehearsal programs show potential in reducing workplace bullying.
- Nurses' self-reported behavior changes indicate program impact.
- A gap exists between perceived ability to intervene and actual response to bullying.
- Further research is essential to develop comprehensive strategies for preventing and managing workplace bullying in healthcare.
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