Eating The Young: The Reality of Smart Shaming Amongst New Staff Nurses

Abstract

Eating the young, or as others would say, nurses eat their young, is an infamous idiom that nurses worldwide understand and use. The study investigates the phenomena of "eating the young" and the unpleasant practice of humiliating new staff nurses. Smart shaming or anti-intellectualism is when someone humiliates an individual solely for their brilliance. Several studies have been conducted over the last few years to define and understand smart shaming. However, there is not enough research focusing on smart shaming of new staff nurses, therefore, the researchers explored the reality of smart shaming amongst new staff nurses. Qualitative phenomenological research was done among new Filipino nurses who were selected through purposive snowball sampling method. An interview was done using a semi-structured questionnaire among Filipino ages 23-26 regardless of gender. Data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s method to determine the lived experiences, challenges and coping mechanisms used. Triangulation was done among friends and family members to ensure consistency of the data provided. The study found that the said phenomenon resulted in a negative impact on new nurses creating a significant emotional and psychological strain making novice nurses feel unprepared and overwhelmed. The lack of mentorship, dismissive attitudes, and unequal workloads highlight systemic issues in how new graduates are treated. Respondents emphasized the importance of support from friends, colleagues and family members to manage workplace stress and smart shaming. Coping mechanisms such as leisure activities, having adequate rest and sleep and some social interactions are essential for mental well-being. Self-care activities and for some, spiritual and reflective practices play a vital role in maintaining a balanced life. The study recommends that healthcare organizations should implement structured mentorship programs designed to support new nurses and promote a nurturing workplace culture. Hospital administration should promote a zero-tolerance policy on senior staff nurses to stop belittling the novice nurses and lastly, studies should broaden their scope to examine the challenges of new staff nurses of how they experienced being smart-ashamed of their seniors in the clinical area.