An exploratory analysis of changes in work values among nurses before and after pregnancy

This study aimed to investigate changes in work values among Japanese nurses before and after pregnancy, their return to work while managing childcare responsibilities, and the multifaceted factors influencing these changes. A web-based survey of 199 female nurses assessed their work values before and after pregnancy, including retrospective questions and open-ended responses. Data were analyzed comprehensively using paired t-tests, generalized estimating equations, and inductive thematic analysis. Only prestige work values demonstrated a significant decrease after pregnancy, as revealed by paired t-tests. Generalized estimating equation analysis identified age at first child, social support from family and other sources, employment status, and educational background as the main factors influencing changes in work values. Qualitative findings indicated that this decline in prestige work values was due to a shift in nurses’ awareness that “their life became centered on their children and family,” alongside family roles and time constraints that limited career development. This study demonstrates that Japanese nurses experience significant changes in their work values during the transition from childbirth to work re-entry. These changes are intricately shaped by several factors, particularly individual life stage variables and social support from family and other sources. A nuanced understanding of these shifts in work values is essential for developing effective and individualized support systems to promote the retention and long-term career development of female nurses in Japan.