Investigation of Gender Stereotypes in Nurse Clinicians’ Metaphors and Concepts of Patients

Abstract

Aim: The present study aims to analyze the presence of gender stereotypes in the metaphors nurse clinicians use to describe their patients.

Methods: This study was conducted with 149 nurse clinicians working at a university hospital. Data were collected using a metaphor survey.

Results: The most common metaphors for female patients were “flower” (f: 23) and “mother/my mother” (f: 8), whereas the most common metaphors for male patients were “wood” (f: 10) and “cactus” (f: 7). These metaphors were more frequently produced by female nurses. Female patients were often described as “delicate, in need of attention and help, and fragile,” while male patients were described as “strong, authoritative, head of the family, and tough.” Female nurses likened a more delicate male patient to a “delicate woman,” and male nurses likened the strength of a male patient to a “man.” Furthermore, eight nurses, five male nurses and three female nurses, frequently used the metaphor of “patient” (f: 6) while stating that they did not view patients as female or male. Male nurses (f: 4) produced the metaphor of “patient” (f: 6) the most.

Conclusion: It is important not to overlook the factors underlying the metaphors produced by nurse clinicians. In this regard, extensive studies are needed to take into account additional factors such as cultural background, experience, or specific patient interactions that may have a major impact on how nurses perceive gender.

Implications for Nursing Management: This study evaluates nurse clinicians’ perceptions of patients in the context of gender stereotypes and highlights some important points in terms of nursing and patient care.