Mobbing is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon frequently observed in Emergency Department (ED) settings, with profound implications for the mental health and professional performance of nurses. On a daily basis, nurses are confronted with highly demanding and often unpredictable situations, which expose them to ethical dilemmas, interpersonal tensions, and various forms of harassment. The present study seeks to explore the perspectives, experiences, and perceptions of healthcare professionals on mobbing, with particular attention to the role of psychological resilience and positive emotions as protective factors. Specifically, the research focused on: (a) the level of knowledge and awareness regarding mobbing, (b) the different forms of mobbing and their relation to psychological resilience, (c) the experience of positive emotions and coping strategies in the face of mobbing, and (d) preventive measures and proposed management strategies. This qualitative study was conducted with a purposive sample of 40 nurses employed across four Greek public hospitals. Data were gathered through 40 semi-structured interviews, structured around four central thematic axes comprising a total of 12 guiding questions. The findings suggest that mobbing is a tangible and ongoing problem within public healthcare institutions. Participants described workplace mobbing as a form of psychological abuse, most commonly manifested through verbal and behavioral expressions. It was further highlighted that such behaviors may stem not only from colleagues and supervisors but also from patients’ relatives or caregivers. To prevent such incidents within healthcare environments, hospital administrations should embrace a more human-centered approach. Department heads need to be sufficiently trained and sensitized to identify and address instances of workplace harassment effectively. In addition, the introduction of educational and awareness-raising seminars, peer-support groups, and structured support programs for the recovery and reintegration of mobbing victims is strongly recommended.
Keywords: Nurses, Qualitative research, emergency department, mobbing, positive emotions, psychological resilience, workplace violence
