The Relationship Between Self-Efficacy, Emotional Intelligence, and Professional Identity Among Palestinian Intern Nursing Students in the West Bank.

Research on professional identity and its associated factors among nursing interns remains limited, particularly in the Palestinian context. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the relationship between self-efficacy, emotional intelligence, and professional identity among Palestinian intern nursing students in the West Bank. A cross-sectional design was employed. A convenience sample of 201 intern nursing students was recruited between April and May 2025. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that included the New General Self-Efficacy Scale (NGSE), the Wong and Law Emotional Intelligence Scale (WLEIS), and the Professional Identity Scale for Nursing Students (PISNS). The results found that participants reported low levels of self-efficacy (M = 14.65, SD = 3.84), emotional intelligence (M = 2.43, SD = 0.56), and professional identity (M = 31.14, SD = 7.49). Professional identity was positively correlated with self-efficacy (r = 0.410, p < 0.001) and emotional intelligence (r = 0.477, p < 0.01). Both variables may contribute to professional identity. In conclusion, self-efficacy and emotional intelligence were positively associated with professional identity. However, causal inferences cannot be established due to the cross-sectional design. Longitudinal and experimental studies are needed before recommending targeted intervention programs.