Conceptualizing workplace cyberbullying: Toward a definition for research and practice in nursing

Abstract

AIMS: To explore nurses' understandings and perceptions of workplace cyberbullying, in order to develop a relevant and meaningful definition of the phenomenon for future research and practice. BACKGROUND: Although previous research places nurses at an elevated risk of exposure to traditional workplace bullying, there is a notable absence of research investigating workplace cyberbullying within this profession. Considering the detrimental outcomes experienced by the targets of workplace cyberbullying, this is an issue that warrants focus. METHODS: Utilizing relevant scenarios as prompts, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 nurses (practising and in training) to explore their understanding of the concept and dynamics of workplace cyberbullying. RESULTS: Three high-level themes were identified and discussed: (1) cyber-specific features that make cyberbullying more damaging than traditional bullying; (2) the importance of context; and (3) the work environment factors that facilitate the occurrence of workplace cyberbullying. CONCLUSIONS: Our refined definition facilitates the investigation of a broader and more inclusive range of behaviours that targets may experience as workplace cyberbullying, and our findings in general highlight potential antecedents in common with traditional workplace bullying. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT: Given the work environment and the challenges faced by the nursing profession, a system-wide approach to intervention and management is recommended, along with utilizing a nursing-specific definition.