Determining the effect of neuro-linguistic programming techniques on the conflict management and interpersonal problem-solving skills of nurse managers: A mixed methods study

Aim: This study, which used quantitative and qualitative design, was conducted to explore the effect of neuro-linguistic programming techniques on the conflict management and interpersonal problem-solving skills of nurse managers. Background: Neuro-linguistic programming is among the methods that can enable managers to achieve the desired results in managing interpersonal problems and conflicts in an organisation. Methods: The research was carried out with a mixed methods approach. The Personal and Professional Characteristics Information Form, Interpersonal Problem-Solving Inventory and Rahim Organizational Conflict Inventory-II were applied to 41 nurse managers and nurses to collect quantitative data for the study. Semi-structured questionnaires were used to collect qualitative data in focus-group interviews held both before and 6 months after the training. Results: As a result of the content analysis of the qualitative data, the nurse managers in the training group were found to have improved abilities to plan and increased flexibility, positiveness, happiness and motivation when compared to the nurse managers in the control group. Findings supporting these data were obtained in the analyses of interviews with nurses. Conclusion: Neuro-linguistic programming training can make a difference in terms of helping nurse managers to develop interpersonal problem- and conflict-solving skills. Implications for Nursing Management: Nurse managers can use neuro-linguistic programming techniques for conflict management and interpersonal problem-solving occurring in their organizations. For this purpose, it is recommended that pregraduate and postgraduate neuro-linguistic programming training is provided to nurse managers.