Effect of ethnocentrism and professional attitudes on moral sensitivity in midwives and nurses: A web-based cross-sectional and correlational study

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate relation between ethnocentrism, professional attitudes and moral sensitivity of midwives and nurses working in Turkey using linear regression model.A descriptive and cross-sectional and correlational study was adopted. Data were collected online between 20/10/2023-25/12/2023. The study was completed with total of 400 nurses and midwives. Data were collected through a personal information form, the Generalised Ethnocentrism Scale (GENE), the Moral Sensitivity Questionnaire (MSQ) and Inventory of Professional Attitude at Occupation (IPAO).Nurses' and midwives' ethnocentric attitudes were high and their professional and moral sensitivity was moderate. A negative and statistically significant relationship was found between GENE and MSQ (r = -0.150 and P < .05). Moreover, it is concluded that ethnocentrism and professional attitudes have a negative effect on the moral sensitivity of nurses and midwives.Based on these results, interventions aimed at improving the ethnocentric and professional attitudes of nurses and midwives will also contribute to improve their moral sensitivity.