In a recent study published in BMC Nursing, researchers have unveiled intriguing insights into the emotional landscapes of nurses, particularly focusing on the roles of envy—both malicious and benign—and its implications for career development. The investigation led by Polat, Ş., Yeşilyurt Sevim, T., and Göktepe, N., delves deep into the psychological effects these forms of envy can have on nurses, a profession often marked by high levels of stress and emotional labor. This groundbreaking research seeks to illuminate the unseen emotional factors that contribute to what is known as a career plateau, a phenomenon where an employee feels stuck or stagnant in their professional journey.
The phenomenon of envy is often misunderstood, categorizing it simply as a negative emotion. However, this study challenges such simplifications by distinguishing between malicious envy—which aims to bring harm or undermining to others—and benign envy, which can motivate individuals to improve themselves. The findings suggest that while malicious envy can lead to detrimental team dynamics and personal dissatisfaction, benign envy might serve as a catalyst for professional growth and higher aspirations within the healthcare environment.
The cross-sectional study design allows the researchers to analyze a snapshot of the emotional states and career aspirations of a significant number of nurses across various healthcare settings. By employing well-validated psychological scales to measure the levels of both forms of envy, the research team has provided a robust framework for understanding the complex interplay between these emotions and the imminent risk of reaching a career plateau.
Statistical analyses from the study revealed that nurses who frequently experience malicious envy tend to report higher levels of job dissatisfaction and burnout. The emotional toll of this negative envy can cultivate a toxic work environment, hindering collaboration and leading to potential turnover. The implications are profound, as healthcare institutions must acknowledge the emotional health of their staff, as it directly correlates with patient care quality and organizational fidelity.
Conversely, benign envy appears to have a different trajectory. The researchers found that nurses who experience benign envy reported a healthier sense of ambition and professional development. Instead of feeling resentful towards a colleague’s success, these nurses are inspired to set personal goals and strive for professional advancement. This distinction is crucial in developing training programs that help nurses channel their emotions positively, fostering a culture of constructive competition and cooperation.
The study also touched on the role of organizational culture and support systems in mitigating the effects of malicious envy. By creating an environment that promotes open communication, professional development opportunities, and peer support, healthcare institutions can diminish the prevalence of harmful envy and its career-stifling effects. Leadership training that emphasizes emotional intelligence and empathy might be essential in reshaping workplace dynamics, making it imperative for healthcare organizations to invest in these soft skills.
Moreover, the implications of these findings extend beyond the individual nurses themselves, affecting entire healthcare teams and organizations. When nurses are trapped in a cycle of malicious envy, it can lead to disengagement, decreased productivity, and a growing divide among team members. In contrast, fostering environments that celebrate achievements and encourage collective growth can pave the way for unprecedented levels of teamwork and organizational success.
It is worth stating that this research holds particular significance in today’s fast-paced healthcare industry, characterized by high turnover rates and relentless demands. As nurses are the backbone of patient care, understanding the psychological factors contributing to their professional stagnation is crucial. Institutions that prioritize mental well-being and provide resources to address emotional challenges will likely see improvements in employee satisfaction and retention rates.
In conclusion, the study by Polat et al. serves as a timely reminder of the emotional undercurrents influencing talent retention and career satisfaction among nurses. By discerning between malicious and benign envy, it offers a nuanced lens through which healthcare organizations can better support their workforce. As the nursing profession continues to face challenges, leveraging emotional awareness and fostering positive peer environments will be essential to not only advancing individual careers but also enhancing the overall healthcare experience for patients.
The researchers’ commitment to understanding the emotional dimensions of nursing careers encourages further dialogue on how emotions are managed within the healthcare sector. As the field evolves, ongoing studies will be needed to explore deeper relationships between various emotions and professional trajectories in nursing, potentially influencing similar fields where interpersonal dynamics play a significant role in job satisfaction and career advancement.
Navigating the complex landscape of emotional health in professional settings is no simple task. However, the findings of this essential study highlight the critical need for a shift in how we perceive and respond to envy within the workplace. By fostering a culture that acknowledges both the positive and negative shades of envy, healthcare institutions can work towards a future where every nurse feels empowered to overcome their challenges and achieve their aspirations.
Subject of Research: The effect of malicious and benign envy on career plateau in nurses.
Article Title: The effect of malicious and benign envy on career plateau in nurses: a cross-sectional study.
Article References:
Polat, Ş., Yeşilyurt Sevim, T., Göktepe, N. et al. The effect of malicious and benign envy on career plateau in nurses: a cross-sectional study.
BMC Nurs 24, 1154 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12912-025-03817-z
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI: 10.1186/s12912-025-03817-z
Keywords: envy, nurses, career plateau, emotional health, workplace dynamics, benign envy, malicious envy, professional development.
