WORK ALIENATION EXISTENCE IN THE WORKPLACE: EXAMINING THE EFFECT OF POWERLESSNESS ON SELF- ESTRANGEMENT IN HEALTH SECTOR

Abstract

This study examines the effect of powerlessness on self-estrangement among nurses, focusing on how limited control and influence in the workplace may contribute to psychological detachment from one's professional role. Nurses work in complex healthcare environments characterized by hierarchical structures, demanding responsibilities, restricted autonomy, and interactions with multiple professional groups, making them an appropriate population for investigating these organizational experiences. A quantitative research design was adopted, and data were collected from nurses through a structured questionnaire using established measures of powerlessness and self-estrangement. The collected data were analyzed using appropriate statistical techniques to examine the effect of powerlessness on self-estrangement. The findings indicate that powerlessness has a significant positive effect on self-estrangement, suggesting that nurses who experience greater limitations in autonomy, participation, and control over work-related decisions are more likely to experience psychological detachment from their work and professional identity. The study highlights the importance of strengthening nurses' professional autonomy, participation in decision-making, employee voice, and supportive organizational practices. The findings contribute to the literature on work alienation and provide practical implications for healthcare organizations seeking to reduce self-estrangement and foster employee engagement, professional identification, and a stronger psychological connection with work.

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.24112633