User violence in public mental health services. Comparative analysis of psychiatrists and clinical psychologists

Background User violence toward health workers is a growing problem. Several studies report that it is increasing and there is also an increase in the number of complaints by these professionals. Within the health system, Mental Health services have been identified as a collective at special risk. Aims This study aims to examine in greater depth the differences in perceived user violence against health professionals, as well as its consequences, comparing two large groups: psychiatrists and clinical psychologists. Methods Using a cross-sectional design, self-reported questionnaires were applied to a sample of 138 professionals from all the public centers in the Region of Murcia (southwest of Spain) that have a Mental Health Unit. Results The results show that psychiatrists are significantly more exposed to user violence, both verbal and physical, revealing a relationship with job dissatisfaction, emotional exhaustion, professional effectiveness, and cynicism. Conclusions The present study provides evidence on the differences in the perception of violence of users towards psychologists and psychiatrists, being those who show that they claim to be more exposed. Furthermore, this violence is associated with burnout, job dissatisfaction, somatic symptoms, anxiety, or depression, among other consequences.