Work

Workplace Violence in Healthcare: Patterns, Prevalence, and Psychological Effects

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction Workplace violence in healthcare settings is an increasing problem affecting the safety and well-being of healthcare staff. It can manifest as physical, verbal, or psychological abuse, leading to stress, burnout, and reduced quality of care. Objectives To determine the prevalence of workplace violence in hospital settings and its different forms and psychological effects Methods This was an analytical cross-sectional study conducted among healthcare professionals at Farhat Hached University Hospital. Data were collected using a pre-established form covering participants’ socio-professional characteristics and the forms of violence experienced and its psychological effects. Results Among the 500 healthcare workers approached during the study period, 362 participated, representing a response rate of 72.4%. The mean age was 37.3 ± 8.71 years, with a predominance of females (59.4%). Paramedical staff constituted the majority (54.4%), with a median professional experience of 7 years. In our study population, 235 participants (64.9%) experienced external violence (from non-hospital personnel), with verbal abuse being the most frequent form (54.4%). Additionally, 256 hospital staff (70.7%) experienced internal violence (from colleagues), predominantly verbal (94.5%). Most participants (78.2%) witnessed internal or external violence, mainly verbal in nature (76%). Among respondents, 312 (86.2%) reported physical or psychological symptoms during the past 12 months, with fatigue (58.6%) and nervousness (52.5%) being the most common. Conclusions Workplace violence in healthcare is frequent and negatively affects the physical and psychological health of staff. Understanding its prevalence and manifestations is crucial to developing effective prevention strategies. Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Source: European Psychiatry

DOI: 10.1192/j.eurpsy.2026.11244