Behavioural Precursors of Violence Potential and Physician Responses in Public Healthcare: A Qualitative Inquiry
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Aim: This study aims to examine conflict processes in patient–physician interactions in public hospitals; to identify emotional, verbal and behavioural precursors of violence shown by patients and their relatives; and to analyse how physicians perceive these warning signals and the emotional responses they experience after conflict.Material and Method: The study was conducted using a qualitative design. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with physicians working in emergency and outpatient units of a public hospital in Türkiye and through direct observations and interviews conducted in the Patient Rights Unit. Initially, behaviours of patients and relatives applying to this unit were observed, followed by interviews with patients/patients’ relatives and physicians involved in conflict situations.Results: Patients were observed to display early warning signs such as anger, impatience, threatening body language, raised voice, accusatory statements and increased stress reflecting a conflict environment with the potential for violence. Physicians reported fear of losing control, helplessness, anger and emotional exhaustion. It was found that signs of violent tendencies often appear before open aggression through communication problems and misunderstandings between the parties.Conclusion: Even in the absence of overt violence, the potential for violence and the barriers on communication weaken healthcare delivery. Institutional recognition and management of early warning signals are essential for preventing violence in public hospitals.
Authors: Bilal Günay, Elif Genç Tetik, Ali Osman Öztürk
Language: Turkish
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7202215005