Psychiatric Nursing Awareness Program about Psychological Problems Associated with Exposure to Sexual Harassment

Background: Sexual harassment jeopardizes the physical and mental well-being of nursing students and has a negative impact on their decision to work. Therefore, it is essential to evaluate sexual harassment awareness among these students. Aim of the research: This study aims to determine the impact of a psychiatric nursing awareness program on psychological problems associated with exposure to sexual harassment. Design: The current study utilized a quasi-experimental study design. Setting: The study was performed at the Faculty of Nursing, Benha University. Sample: It was performed on nursing students. Tools of data collection : Tool (I):- A structured Interview Questionnaire comprised of two parts: Part 1: a- Socio-demographic data, b- family characteristics and part II: Awareness questionnaire sheet; tool II: Self Confidence inventory (ASCI); tool III: Taylor’s Manifest Anxiety Scale; tool IV: The HDRS Hamilton depression rating scale. Results: A highly statistically significant association was found between total awareness, total levels of depression, self-confidence, and anxiety (P= 0.00). A significant difference was observed between pre-and post-implementation of the program regarding the studied students’ awareness of psychological problems (depression, anxiety, self-confidence) associated with sexual harassment. Conclusion: The students’ awareness improved significantly in post-intervention evaluation than pre-intervention. There was a highly significant relationship between awareness, level of depression, and self-confidence. In contrast, a statistically significant negative correlation was found between awareness, depression, and anxiety. Recommendations: Conducting awareness campaigns for all females to improve their awareness about psychological consequences associated with exposure to sexual harassment.