Jordanian nursing students' interpersonal behaviors

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Social Psychology
• Interpersonal Behavior Analysis

Background:

• Understanding interpersonal dynamics is crucial for effective nursing practice and patient care.
• Previous research has explored nursing student behaviors, but specific cultural contexts like Jordan require further investigation.
• Identifying factors influencing interpersonal behaviors can inform curriculum development and support systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the interpersonal behaviors of Jordanian nursing students.
• To examine the relationship between interpersonal behaviors and nursing program type (baccalaureate vs. diploma).
• To assess the influence of academic year and gender on nursing students' interpersonal behaviors.

Main Methods:

• A quantitative study involving 536 Jordanian nursing students.
• Utilized the Fundamental Interpersonal Relations Orientation Behavior Test (FIRO-B) for self-reported interpersonal behavior assessment.
• Analyzed data based on nursing program type, academic year/level, and gender.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in interpersonal behaviors were found between baccalaureate and diploma nursing students.
• Male nursing students exhibited a higher desire for control in interpersonal relations compared to female students.
• Third- and fourth-year nursing students showed a greater need for affiliation and intimacy than first- and second-year students.

Conclusions:

• Nursing program type does not significantly differentiate interpersonal behaviors among Jordanian students.
• Gender influences interpersonal control needs, with males seeking more control.
• Academic progression correlates with increased needs for social connection among nursing students.
• Findings offer insights for refining nursing curricula, addressing gender-based interpersonal dynamics, and enhancing nurse-student relationships.