Attitudes about work engagement of different generations—A cross‐sectional study with nurses and supervisors

Abstract

Aim This study investigated whether generation Y nurses (1981‐1995) adopt a different attitude about work than generation X caregivers (1966‐1980) and baby boomers (1956‐1965). Background Employees’ positive attitude to work engagement is a competitive factor for clinics. In age‐diverse team structures, possible different attitudes can lead to conflicts. Methods As part of a quantitative, descriptive, cross‐sectional study with the survey instrument AVEM‐44, health and nursing staff, as well as nursing directors and ward administrators, were interviewed. Results A total of N = 992 individuals (n = 312 nursing directors, n = 259 ward administrators and n = 421 nurses) were included in the study. Nurses and executives viewed generation Y as being less willing to give oneself out and as attaching less importance to work than generation X and the baby boomers. On the other hand, professional ambition was more important to generation Y than the older generations. Conclusions Transformational leadership behavior represents an approach to guide employees of different generations individually and to harmonize different attitudes. Implications for Nurse Management To lead employees transformationally, it is necessary to know generation‐specific differences concerning attitudes towards work.