Workplace Bullying and Coping Strategies Among Portuguese Healthcare Professionals
Ana Isabel Sani1,2,3,4, Mariana Magalhães3,5,6, Rute F Meneses1,4,7
1Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, University Fernando Pessoa (FCHS-UFP), Praça 9 de Abril, 349, 4249-004 Porto, Portugal.
Summary
Workplace bullying affects healthcare professionals, with nurses experiencing it more than doctors. Victims utilized more coping strategies like venting and distraction when facing negative work experiences.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- Workplace bullying is a significant issue impacting professionals across sectors.
- Understanding its prevalence and effects within healthcare is crucial for intervention.
- Previous research highlights the need to explore coping mechanisms in response to workplace violence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify bullying behaviors experienced by Portuguese healthcare professionals.
- To examine the coping strategies employed by these professionals.
- To analyze the relationship between workplace bullying, sociodemographic factors, and coping strategies.
Main Methods:
- A quantitative, cross-sectional, correlational study was conducted.
- 208 Portuguese healthcare professionals completed an online survey.
- Instruments included a sociodemographic questionnaire, Negative Acts Questionnaire-Revised, and Brief COPE.
Main Results:
- Only 35 participants reported being victims of bullying; no sociodemographic associations were found.
- Nurses were identified as more frequent victims than doctors.
- Planning and active coping were common strategies; women used social/emotional support more.
- Negative work experiences correlated with increased use of coping strategies, particularly venting, distraction, and behavioral disengagement.
Conclusions:
- Healthcare professionals, especially nurses, face workplace bullying.
- Victims employ diverse coping strategies, with increased use linked to negative experiences.
- Findings can inform policies and practices to create healthier healthcare work environments.
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