Conflict Resolution Strategies Training Program and its Effect on Assertiveness among Nursing Students

Abstract

Background nursing students are increasingly challenged to manage conflict, improve communication, and influence assertive behavior. Aim: This study aims to assess the effect of the training program about conflict resolution strategies on nursing students' assertiveness. Design: A quasi-experimental design was used. Settings: the study was conducted at the Technical Institute of Nursing, Zagazig University. Subjects: 151 students in the two grades academic year. Data collection: Three tools were used: the conflict knowledge questionnaire, Rahim conflict strategies inventory II, and students' assertiveness questionnaire. Results: revealed that the highest percentage of the nursing students had unsatisfactory knowledge and perception of conflict, and assertiveness level before program. After program implementation there are improving in the satisfactory level of constructive conflict resolution strategies and assertiveness. Conclusion: the implementation of an educational intervention is effective in improving these nursing students' knowledge and perception of conflict and their assertiveness, with positive influences on constructive conflict management strategies, and hindering impact on the negative ones. Recommendation: proposed to develop training program in the curricula of the Technical Nursing Institutes in order to improve students' psychomotor skills and summer courses and co-curriculum activities need to be developed to help nursing students improve their conflict resolution strategies and assertiveness. Keywords: assertiveness, conflict, conflict resolution strategies.