Violence against radiologists. II: Psychosocial factors.

PURPOSE: Violence against radiologists is a growing problem. This study evaluated the psychosocial factors associated with this phenomenon.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

A questionnaire was administered to 992 Italian radiologists.

RESULTS

Physical violence experienced in the previous 12-month period was associated with the radiologist's poor mental health [odds ratio (OR) 1.11] and overcommitment to work (OR 1.06), whereas radiologists in good physical health (OR 0.64), with job satisfaction (OR 0.96) and with overall happiness (OR 0.67) were less exposed. Nonphysical abuse was equally associated with the radiologist's poor mental health (OR 1.10) and overcommitment (OR 1.14) and negatively associated with physical health (OR 0.54), job satisfaction (OR 0.96), happiness (OR 0.81), organisational justice (OR 0.94) and social support (OR 0.80).

CONCLUSIONS

Preventive intervention against violence in the workplace should improve workplace organisation and relationships between workers.