Empathy in Workplace Relationships: Experiences of Generation Z Nurses with Colleagues and Nurse Managers
TL;DR
Examination of Gen Z nurses’ experiences of empathy in workplace relationships with colleagues and nurse managers and the individual, generational, and institutional factors shaping these experiences suggest that supportive, non-hierarchical relationships may facilitate empathic engagement, whereas rigid communication styles and heavy workloads may act as barriers.
Abstract
Background: Empathy is essential for supportive nursing work environments, yet little is known about Generation Z (Gen Z) nurses’ experiences of empathy from colleagues and nurse managers. Aim: To examine Gen Z nurses’ experiences of empathy in workplace relationships with colleagues and nurse managers and the individual, generational, and institutional factors shaping these experiences. Methods: A qualitative descriptive study design was employed. Data were collected between October 2025 and March 2026 through semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 20 Gen Z nurses working in diverse clinical settings in Turkey. Participants were recruited using purposive and snowball sampling. Interviews were conducted via Zoom, audio-recorded with consent, and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s reflexive thematic analysis framework. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist guided the study reporting. Results: Four main themes were identified: (1) perceptions of empathy among Gen Z nurses, (2) empathy experiences in workplace relationships, (3) factors influencing empathy experiences, and (4) expectations for building an empathic work environment. Empathy was experienced through feeling understood, non-judgmental listening, and emotional and practical support, particularly in peer relationships. Hierarchical communication, perceived intergenerational differences, workload, and time pressure were key factors influencing workplace empathy experiences. Conclusions: Participants described empathy as a relational and context-dependent experience embedded in everyday workplace interactions. Their accounts suggest that supportive, non-hierarchical relationships may facilitate empathic engagement, whereas rigid communication styles and heavy workloads may act as barriers. These findings represent the experiences and interpretations of the Gen Z nurses interviewed and should not be read as objective comparisons between generations. Organizational strategies that support empathic communication and psychologically safe teamwork may help strengthen team cohesion and nurse retention.