Effect of Autocratic Leadership on Nurses’ Psychological Well-being in Pakistan: Examining the Roles of Psychological Empowerment and Power Distance Orientation

Abstract

This study explores the impact of autocratic leadership on nurses’ psychological well-being, with psychological empowerment as a mediator and individual power distance orientation as a moderator. Conducted through a cross-sectional survey of 230 nurses in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, the study found that autocratic leadership does not directly harm nurses' well-being. Instead, psychological empowerment helps mitigate negative effects by allowing nurses to feel a sense of influence over their work. Additionally, nurses with high power distance orientation are more accepting of autocratic leadership and experience fewer adverse effects. These findings challenge the assumption that autocratic leadership is universally harmful, suggesting it can provide structure in regulated environments. Organizations should balance control with participatory leadership to enhance psychological empowerment, improving both staff well-being and patient care. Future research should incorporate longitudinal data and explore additional moderating factors like organizational culture and social support.