A study on the relationship between nurses’ compulsory citizenship behaviours and job stress

Aim To determine whether there is a relationship between compulsory citizenship behaviours and job stress among nurses working at public hospitals. Background Nurses may face strong pressure from their managers or peers to perform role behaviours beyond what is found in their job definition. When mandated, these extra duties are called compulsory citizenship behaviours. Method This descriptive study included 569 nurses who work in three hospitals. Data were analysed using descriptive statistical analyses, linearity test, Pearson's correlation analysis, simple linear regression analysis and parametric and nonparametric tests. Results There was a significant, strong and positive relationship between the nurses' job stress and compulsory citizenship behaviours. Statistically significant differences were found between the nurses’ job stress scores according to the institution and unit they worked in and their professional experience duration. Conclusion This study found that nurses display compulsory citizenship behaviours and experience job stress at a high level. A significant relationship was found between these two variables. Implications for Nursing Management Special training programmes should be held informing managers and nurses about the negative outcomes of compulsory citizenship behaviours and positive outcomes of organisational citizenship behaviours. Appropriate opportunities and resources should be provided to cope with stress in hospital settings.