Fostering Healthier Interpersonal Dynamics: A Mentalization-Based Antibullying Program for ICU Nurses

Aim: This study evaluated the effectiveness of a mentalization-based antibullying program (MBAP) to enhance intensive care unit (ICU) nurses' interpersonal competences. Background: Mentalization is the ability to focus on and understand the mental states of oneself and others. Previous research on ICU nurses has identified mentalization as a critical factor influencing both victimization and perpetration of workplace bullying. Methods: A quasiexperimental design was utilized. A four-session MBAP (with weekly 90-min sessions) aimed at improving awareness of personality traits, interpersonal cognition, and self-conscious emotions was developed. The intervention group underwent the program for a month in June 2023 in four different subgroups. Twenty-six participants were initially recruited for each of the intervention and control groups; however, five intervention group participants withdrew during the allocation phase, with no control group dropouts. Results: Intervention group participants showed a significant reduction in the narcissistic vulnerability subscale of pathological narcissism compared to the control group. They also exhibited a significant decrease in interpersonal cognitive distortions and an increase in mentalization scores. Regarding self-conscious emotions, the shame score significantly decreased, while the guilt score significantly increased. Conclusions: MBAP can be an effective intervention for addressing workplace bullying. By targeting psychological and cognitive factors, including narcissistic vulnerability, interpersonal cognitive distortions, and self-conscious emotions, MBAP holds promise for promoting healthier interpersonal dynamics and emotional regulation among ICU nurses. Implications for Nursing Management: The MBAP can be implemented broadly to prevent workplace bullying and promote a positive organizational culture in ICU settings. Future research should refine and adapt the program to accommodate the unique work characteristics and interpersonal dynamics of nurses in various settings. Workplace bullying is a deeply entrenched negative organizational issue in nursing, and this program could be a highly effective intervention across diverse healthcare environments. Trial Registration: The Clinical Research Information Service (CRIS): KCT0008704.