Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

What term defines the pattern of behavior intended to control or devalue a peer, posing risks to health and safety?

1. Hostile environment

2. Compassion fatigue

3. Vertical hostility

4. Horizontal hostility

The correct answer is: Horizontal hostility

The term that defines a pattern of behavior intended to control or devalue a peer, posing risks to health and safety, is horizontal hostility. This concept refers specifically to negative behaviors and attitudes that occur between individuals at the same level within an organization, such as among colleagues. Horizontal hostility can manifest in various ways, including bullying, belittling, or undermining a peer's work or contributions. This behavior is particularly concerning in healthcare settings, where teamwork and collaboration are essential for patient safety and quality care. By fostering a hostile environment among peers, horizontal hostility can lead to increased stress, decreased job satisfaction, and ultimately, adverse outcomes for both staff and patients. In contrast, a hostile environment refers broadly to any environment filled with intimidation or harassment, which may include factors beyond peer interactions. Compassion fatigue describes the emotional strain and diminished capacity for empathy one may experience from caring for others, while vertical hostility refers to power dynamics and hostilities between different levels in an organization, such as between management and staff. Each of these concepts differs from horizontal hostility, which specifically addresses the interactions between colleagues on the same level.