Factors Influencing Cultural Sensitivity among Nursing Students

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This study was conducted to determine the predictors of cultural sensitivity for nursing students in Korea. METHODS: The participants in this study were 332 nursing students. Data collection was conducted through the use of questionnaires which were constructed to include a Cultural Sensitivity Scale, Knowledge of Culture, Interpersonal Reaction Index, and Self-efficacy Scale. RESULTS: Results showed that cultural sensitivity of nursing students was middle range. Knowledge level of culture was very low. There was a significant positive correlation between cultural sensitivity and knowledge of culture, empathy, and self-efficacy. The significant factors influencing cultural sensitivity of nursing students were empathy, self-efficacy, experience of an overseas trip and awareness of cultural education. These four factors explained 23.8% of the variance in cultural sensitivity of nursing students. CONCLUSION: These results indicate that cultural sensitivity is an important link with empathy and self-efficacy in nursing students. For nursing students to enhance cultural sensitivity, a transcultural nursing curriculum needs to develop for appropriate and effective services in cross-cultural situations of the multicultural families in Korea.