Coping Strategies of Nurses in Response to Nosy Behaviors in the Workplace: An Exploratory Study
Keywords:
Nosiness; Curiosity; Behavior; Healthcare OrganizationsAbstract
Employees typically value their privacy in the workplace and may feel irritated when confronted with nosy questions. This study aims to explore the coping strategies employed by nurses in response to nosy behaviors exhibited by their colleagues. Despite the significance of nosiness in the workplace, previous research has not extensively examined this phenomenon. Through an exploratory and qualitative approach, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 23 nurses from four hospitals in Isfahan province, Iran. Our findings revealed that nurses utilize maladaptive strategies such as reducing interaction with nosy colleagues and avoiding responses, as well as adaptive strategies like active confrontation and humorous responses. This study sheds light on the nuanced coping strategies nurses employ to manage nosy behaviors in the workplace, providing valuable insights for healthcare organizations to develop supportive environments that respect employees' privacy and foster positive interpersonal dynamics. Understanding these strategies can enhance workplace communication, promote professional boundaries, and contribute to a more harmonious work environment conducive to quality patient care.
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