The Relationships of Social Capital with COVID-19 Anxiety and Aggression Among Nurses Caring for COVID-19 Patients in Two Hospitals in Southwestern Iran

Abstract

Background: Health crises expose nurses to numerous psychological challenges and affect their daily interactions. Objectives: This study aimed to explore the relationship between social capital and psychological symptoms among nurses caring for COVID-19 patients. Methods: In this descriptive-analytical study using systematic random sampling, data from 207 nurses were collected through a demographic questionnaire, the Onyx and Bolen Social Capital Scale, the Corona Disease Anxiety Scale (CDAS), and the Buss Perry Aggression Questionnaire (BPAQ). Results: The mean ± SD age of the nurses was 33.6 ± 7.76 years. The mean ± SD scores for social capital, anxiety, and aggression among participants were moderate, low, and low, respectively. A significant inverse relationship was observed between social capital and both COVID-19 anxiety and aggression. Conclusions: It is recommended that officials work to empower the nursing care team by providing opportunities for the development of social capital and anger management skills.