Workplace ostracism in healthcare: Association with job satisfaction, stress, and perceived health

Abstract

Aims

To examine (1) the association between healthcare workers' workplace ostracism and job satisfaction, stress and perceived health, and (2) whether this relationship is mediated by loneliness and self-esteem.

Design

A cross-sectional study.

Methods

Healthcare (N = 569) managers and employees (nurses, practical nurses, doctors and social workers) in Finland responded to a semi-structured survey in January 2021 and evaluated their experiences of workplace ostracism, job satisfaction, stress, perceived health, loneliness and self-esteem during the last year. To examine the association of these variables, linear regression and mediator model tests were performed.

Results

Workplace ostracism had a clear direct association with job satisfaction, stress and perceived health. Loneliness fully mediated the relationship between workplace ostracism, stress and perceived health, and partly mediated the association between workplace ostracism and job satisfaction. Self-esteem partly mediated the association between workplace ostracism, stress, job satisfaction and perceived health.

Conclusion

The experience of workplace ostracism in organizations is a significant factor in job satisfaction, stress and perceived health. Healthcare organizations could strengthen job satisfaction and increase workers' well-being by strengthening social relationships in the organization and, via that, reducing turnover intention.

Implications for the profession and patient care

This study gives understanding and information to the healthcare profession on how workplace ostracism affects work well-being and workplace relationships. Workplace ostracism decreases interaction, which can also endanger patient care if information is not openly exchanged.

Impact

This study indicated that workplace ostracism weakened job satisfaction more than loneliness. More commonality and consideration for others at work are needed because these factors may help increase work well-being and decrease exits from working life. Further research is needed on why workplace ostracism occurs in healthcare workplaces.

Reporting Method

STROBE.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.