Countering unprofessional workplace behavior

Editor's Note

Organizational support initiatives and authentic leadership training for nurse leaders reduced bullying among licensed practical nurses (LPNs) in this study.

A survey was sent to a random sample of 855 LPNs that was drawn from a total of 4,306 in a Midwestern state; 168 usable questionnaires were returned for a 19.65% response rate.

Of the LPNs surveyed, 43% said they had experienced at least two negative behaviors on a weekly/daily basis, and 12% self-identified as a victim.

The presence of the moral component of authentic leadership was found to be a major determinant of overall bullying, person-related bullying, and physical intimidation.

Perceived leadership support was a major determinant of work-related bullying, and training managers in authentic leadership should be considered to reduce bullying, the authors note.