Workplace sexual harassment and suicide ideation in female nurses: multiplying effects of social stigma and job insecurity

Abstract

Objectives: To examine the link between workplace sexual harassment and suicidal ideation among female nurses in private hospitals, testing social stigma as a mediator and job insecurity as a moderator, and distinguishing sources of harassment (colleagues vs patients). Methods: Cross-sectional explanatory survey of 312 female nurses employed ≥1 year in private hospitals. Standardized measures assessed sexual harassment, perceived social stigma, job insecurity, and suicidal ideation. Structural equation modeling (SmartPLS) evaluated direct, mediated, and moderated effects, with robustness checks for common-method bias and demographic controls. Results: Harassment showed a significant positive association with suicidal ideation. Social stigma partially mediated this pathway, indicating that victimization increases perceived stigma, which in turn elevates suicidal thoughts. Job insecurity amplified the harassment–ideation link: nurses reporting higher insecurity experienced stronger adverse effects and reported greater difficulty resisting harassment. Effects were observed for harassment by both colleagues and patients. Conclusion: Female nurses in private hospitals face substantial risk of sexual harassment and consequential psychological harm, including suicidal ideation. Interventions should integrate rigorous anti-harassment enforcement, protected and confidential reporting, stigma-reduction initiatives, accessible mental-health services, and job-security safeguards. Addressing stigma and precarious employment is essential to mitigating harm and protecting nurses’ well-being.