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Psychiatric trainees’ experiences of workplace violence: qualitative analysis

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  04 March 2024

Lauren Fowler
Affiliation:
University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
Alisha Vara
Affiliation:
University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
Lillian Ng*
Affiliation:
University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
*
Correspondence to Lillian Ng (lillian.ng@auckland.ac.nz)
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Abstract

Aims and method

We aimed to explore experiences of workplace violence in a New Zealand sample of psychiatric trainees and to identify barriers to achieving safe practice and ways of enhancing workplace safety. In a qualitative study, we used interpretive description to inform and design in-depth exploration of participants’ experiences. We interviewed 12 psychiatric trainees. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

There were three main themes: (a) violence as ‘part of the job’, leading to a culture of silence; (b) empowering trainees to address a sense of learned helplessness; and (c) conflict embedded within the unique nature of psychiatry.

Clinical implications

Organisation-led systems-based procedures are instrumental in promoting workplace safety. Specific measures include peer-based support and implementing clear, tailored safety protocols, particularly for situations of crisis assessment. Training should include culturally focused education with specific guidance to mitigate violence.

Information

Type
Education and Training
Creative Commons
Creative Common License - CCCreative Common License - BY
This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution licence (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted re-use, distribution and reproduction, provided the original article is properly cited.
Copyright
© The Author(s), 2024. Published by Cambridge University Press on behalf of Royal College of Psychiatrists
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