# Cross-Sectional Correlational Study in the Valencian Community (Spain) on the Social Image and Attitudes Towards Nursing

## TL;DR

This study in Spain found that professional values and communication skills strongly influence public perception of nursing, suggesting that improving these traits can enhance the profession's social image.

## Contribution

The study introduces a structural model showing how empathy, professional values, and communication skills predict public attitudes toward nursing.

## Key findings

- Professional values predicted 41% of the variance in social image and 34% in attitude toward nursing.
- Communication skills predicted 31% of the variance in social image and 37% in attitude toward nursing.
- Empathy had a minor but significant predictive role in shaping public perception of nursing.

## Abstract

Background: Nursing is an essential pillar in health services provision; however, its social value is often underestimated. The public image of, and society’s attitude toward, the profession is commonly influenced by stereotypes and biases. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the predictive influence of empathy, professional values and communication skills on the social image and attitude towards nursing. Methods: A cross-sectional, correlational study was conducted in the Valencian Community, Spain. Snowball sampling was used for data collection from 300 participants (81% female; mean age 35.85 years, SD = 14.99). Empathy, professional values and communication skills were measured, and a structural equation model was proposed to assess their influence. Results: Professional values were significant predictors of both social image (β = 0.41) and attitude toward nursing (β = 0.34). Similarly, communication skills predicted social image (β = 0.31) and attitude (β = 0.37). Empathy also emerged as a significant, though minor, predictor. Collectively, these three factors explained 30% of the variance in social image and 39% in attitude toward the profession. The main limitations arise from the severe demographic bias of the snowball sample (skewed toward women, young, and highly educated individuals) and the modest explanatory power (R2 of 30–39%). This limits the generalizability of the findings and suggests the need for future research on omitted variables, such as working conditions and organizational culture. Conclusions: Empathy, professional values and communication skills are key competencies contributing to a more positive social image of and attitude toward nursing. Investing in the development of these competencies can significantly enhance the recognition and appreciation of nursing within the healthcare system.