Experiences in Occupational Identity Formation of Newly Commissioned Nursing Officers: A Focus Group Interview Study

Purpose: This study aimed to explore the occupational identity formation of junior nursing officers. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted using focus group interviews. Participants included sixteen junior nursing officers serving in three military hospitals in South Korea. Data were collected through three rounds of focus group sessions from August 8 to September 1, 2024. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the transcribed data. Results: The study identified four themes: ‘Facing the gap between reality and expectations’, ‘Navigating one’s role and identity through self-directed adaptation’, ‘Recognizing job commitment and sense of duty in the role’ and ‘Integrating the meaning of work into one’s life’. Participants faced challenges in balancing dual roles as nurses and military officers but developed their occupational identity through self-reflection and adapting to unexpected situations. Conclusion: Newly commissioned nursing officers face challenges in balancing their conflicting roles between the expectations and the reality. Through self-exploration and adaptation, they were found to have developed occupational identity and resilience. This study highlights the need for educational programs, supportive policies, social support, and better working conditions to strengthen their occupational identity.