Inclusive leadership of nurse managers and its relation to proactive work behavior and work engagement among nurses

Background Inclusive leadership is an emerging approach in nursing administration that emphasizes openness to new ideas, active participation in decision-making, and supportive behaviors that foster trust and fairness among team members. Aim Examine the inclusive leadership of nurse managers and its relation to proactive work behavior and work engagement among nurses. Study design A descriptive correlational research design was utilized. Sample A convenience sample of 200 nurses was recruited. Setting This study was conducted at a psychiatric and mental health hospital in Benha city. Tools Data were collected using standardized scales measuring inclusive leadership, proactive work behavior, and work engagement. Results There were statistically significant positive correlations between inclusive leadership and proactive work behavior ( r =0.63, P <0.001), and work engagement ( r =0.66, P <0.001). Proactive work behavior was positively correlated with work engagement ( r =0.61, P <0.001). Conclusion Perceived inclusive leadership among nurse managers was associated with higher levels of proactive work behavior and work engagement among nurses. These findings highlight the importance of fostering inclusive leadership practices to enhance nurses’ engagement and proactive contributions in psychiatric care settings. Recommendations Healthcare organizations should implement structured leadership development programs focusing on inclusive leadership competencies and integrate engagement-enhancing strategies within nursing management practices.