Mediating Effect of Professional Identity Between Psychological Empowerment and Moral Courage of Nursing Students.

AIM: This study aims to investigate the mediating role of professional identity in the relationship between psychological empowerment and moral courage among nursing students. RESEARCH DESIGN: This study employed a cross-sectional descriptive survey design. METHODS: Between March and April 2022, 394 nursing students were selected using purposive sampling. Participants completed a questionnaire that included sections on general information, professional identity, psychological empowerment and moral courage. Descriptive statistics summarised the levels of the main variables, while Pearson correlation and SEM were used to examine relationships and pathways among psychological empowerment, professional identity and moral courage. RESULTS: Professional identity was positively associated with psychological empowerment and moral courage. Psychological empowerment also demonstrated a significant mediating effect on the relationship between professional identity and moral courage. The SEM showed a good fit with the data. CONCLUSION: Strengthening professional identity and psychological empowerment may enhance moral courage in nursing students. These findings highlight the importance of integrating professional development and empowerment strategies in nursing education. Future research should investigate the effectiveness of targeted educational interventions and explore cross-cultural differences in the cultivation of moral courage. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: No patient or public contribution.