In an increasingly complex and demanding healthcare environment, the emotional resilience of nursing students is becoming a pivotal focus within nursing education. A groundbreaking qualitative study conducted by Tek Sevindik and S. Mansuroğlu sheds light on the transformative impact of stress management training, grounded in Bar-On’s mixed model of emotional intelligence. This research not only seeks to enhance the mental well-being of nursing students but also aims to equip them with essential skills for thriving in high-pressure healthcare settings.
The study examines how an integrated training program can enable nursing students to navigate stress effectively, fostering a more robust emotional intelligence framework. The researchers argue that traditional nursing curricula often overlook the emotional aspects of healthcare, leaving students underprepared to face the psychological challenges inherent in their future roles as caregivers. By adopting Bar-On’s model, which encompasses intrapersonal and interpersonal skills, adaptability, and stress management, the training offers a holistic approach to developing resilience in nursing students.
Through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, the researchers collected data reflecting the students’ experiences before and after participating in the stress management training. The findings reveal a significant positive shift in the students’ ability to manage stress and, consequently, in their overall emotional well-being. Many participants noted that prior to the training, they often felt overwhelmed and ill-equipped to deal with the demands placed upon them during clinical placements and coursework. This initial struggle typically stemmed from a lack of coping strategies and support.
Post-training, however, students reported feeling more empowered and capable of handling adversity. They articulated a newfound understanding of their emotional responses and the ability to employ practical relaxation techniques and cognitive behavioral strategies. This shift suggests that when students receive targeted training in emotional intelligence and stress management, they can significantly enhance their personal and professional well-being.
The research also highlights the importance of creating supportive educational environments where nursing students feel free to express their concerns and seek help. Many participants noted that the communal aspect of the training—where they could share experiences and strategies with peers—was particularly beneficial. This peer support system not only bolstered individual resilience but also fostered a sense of camaraderie, reinforcing the idea that they are not alone in their challenges.
Moreover, the study draws attention to the implications of emotional intelligence in nursing practice. Nursing is not merely a technical profession; it is intrinsically tied to emotional labor. As nurses frequently encounter patients in vulnerable situations, the ability to manage one’s emotions while also empathizing with others becomes crucial. By enhancing emotional intelligence through targeted training, nursing students are better prepared to provide compassionate care while also maintaining their mental health.
Interestingly, the researchers propose that stress management training should not be a one-time event but rather an integral part of the nursing curriculum. Continuous workshops and refresher courses could be established to ensure students and practicing nurses alike are equipped with the latest strategies for managing stress effectively. This ongoing education would cultivate a culture of mental health awareness within nursing, promoting a sustainable approach to well-being.
As healthcare systems worldwide grapple with increasing workload and complexity, the findings of this study resonate deeply. The integration of emotional intelligence training into nursing education could potentially lead to improved patient care outcomes, as emotionally intelligent nurses are likely to exhibit higher levels of empathy and better communication skills. This, in turn, may contribute to reduced burnout rates among nurses, creating a healthier workforce capable of meeting the escalating demands of the profession.
The transformation rendered by this innovative training approach extends beyond individual benefits, potentially influencing the entire healthcare environment. A workforce that approaches challenges with emotional resilience is more likely to foster collaborative team dynamics, reduce conflict, and enhance overall patient satisfaction. Thus, this research not only underscores the necessity of equipping nursing students with stress management tools but also advocates for a paradigm shift in nursing education that prioritizes emotional intelligence.
In conclusion, Tek Sevindik and Mansuroğlu’s study presents compelling evidence that stress management training based on Bar-On’s emotional intelligence framework can significantly transform the experiences of nursing students. By prioritizing emotional health within nursing education, institutions can better prepare future generations of nurses to meet the challenges of their roles, ultimately benefiting patient care and the healthcare system as a whole. As the study paves the way for future research in this essential area, it urges stakeholders at all levels to recognize the critical role emotional intelligence plays in shaping the future of nursing.
The implications of this study could redefine nursing education, urging educators and policymakers to invest in comprehensive emotional intelligence training as a staple in curricula. As the field of nursing continues to evolve and adapt to modern challenges, equipping students with these essential tools could prove vital in fostering a resilient healthcare workforce ready to tackle the complexities ahead.
Subject of Research: The impact of stress management training based on Bar-On’s mixed model of emotional intelligence on nursing students.
Article Title: The transformation brought by stress management training based on Bar-On’s mixed model of emotional intelligence in nursing students: a qualitative study.
Article References:
Tek Sevindik, S., Mansuroğlu, S. The transformation brought by stress management training based on Bar-On’s mixed model of emotional intelligence in nursing students: a qualitative study. BMC Nurs 24, 1267 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12912-025-03913-0
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI: 10.1186/s12912-025-03913-0
Keywords: emotional intelligence, stress management training, nursing education, resilience, qualitative study.
