Incivility in Nursing Education in a Midwestern State Technical College System

Mitton, J. Abstract Workplace incivility remains a significant concern in nursing education, yet limited research has examined faculty-to-faculty incivility within technical college settings. This mixed-methods study examined the incidence and lived experiences of faculty-to-faculty incivility among nursing faculty employed within a Midwestern state technical college system. Guided by Self-Determination Theory, the study explored faculty perceptions of uncivil behaviors, the frequency of these behaviors, demographic differences, and strategies for improving workplace civility. Data were collected from 40 full-time nursing faculty using the validated Workplace Incivility/Civility Survey (WICS). Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, and qualitative responses were analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings indicated that participants consistently identified behaviors such as unequal workload distribution, inattentiveness during meetings, and resistance to change as common forms of incivility. No statistically significant differences were found across demographic groups or geographic regions in perceptions or reported experiences of incivility. Qualitative analysis identified three themes: communication and interpersonal dynamics, leadership and organizational influence, and accountability and structural factors. Participants described incivility as contributing to increased stress, reduced job satisfaction, diminished collaboration, and reluctance to address workplace concerns. Suggested strategies included leadership engagement, consistent accountability, civility education, and the development of psychologically safe work environments. These findings highlight the importance of organizational culture and leadership in addressing faculty-to-faculty incivility and fostering healthier, more collaborative academic environments.

Grantor dc:publisher

Alverno College

Year dc:date

2026

Author dc:creator

• Mitton, J.

Statement dc:rights

• These materials may be used by individuals and libraries for personal use, research, teaching (including distribution to classes), or for any fair use as defined by U.S. Copyright Law.

Language dc:language

English

Repository record dc:identifier

https://alverno.omeka.net/items/show/1051

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:alverno.omeka.net:1051