Antecedents and Consequences of Intragroup Conflict Among Nurses in Acute Care Settings

One of the contributing factors to the current nursing shortage is job dissatisfaction due to conflict in the workplace. In order to develop strategies to reduce conflict, research is needed to understand the causes and outcomes of conflict in nursing work environments. This study tested a theoretical model linking antecedent variables (core self-evaluation, complexity of nursing care, unit size, interactional justice, managerial support, unit morale) to intragroup conflict, followed by conflict management, and ultimately, job stress and job satisfaction. A predictive, non-experimental design was used in a random sample of 277 acute care nurses in Ontario. Structural equation modeling techniques were used to analyze the hypothesized model. Final analysis revealed relatively good fit of data to the hypothesized model (Chi-square = 211.7, df = 80, CFI = .92, RMSEA=0.07). Lower core self-evaluation, higher complexity of nursing care, lower interactional justice, and poor unit morale resulted in higher intragroup relationship conflict, and ultimately a less ‘agreeable’ conflict management style, higher stress and job dissatisfaction. Conflict management style partially mediated the relationship between conflict and job satisfaction. Job stress also had a direct effect on job satisfaction and core self-evaluation had a direct effect on job stress. The study results suggest that conflict and its associated outcomes is a complex process, affected by dispositional, contextual and interpersonal factors. Nurses’ core self-evaluations, complexity of nursing care and relationships with managers and nursing colleagues influences the level of conflict they experience. How nurses manage conflict may not prevent the negative effects of conflict on job stress and job satisfaction, however learning to manage conflict using collaboration and accommodation may help nurses feel more satisfied with their jobs. In addition, education programs that contribute to an individual’s ability to feel more confident about their ability to manage conflict may help them cope more effectively with the stress generated by conflict.Ph