An exploratory study of the hardy personality at work in the health care industry

Abstract

The concept of personality hardiness is tested for its contribution to perceptions of the nursing work environment. Hardiness has been traditionally linked to positive health outcomes and stress resistance, but the traits which lead to disease-resistance logically have other effects on the individual. Results of this exploratory study indicate that hardiness is negatively linked to perceptions of work pressure and role ambiguity. Positive relationships were found between hardiness and job clarity, organizational involvement, and peer cohesion. Suggestions for additional study are enumerated.