Nurses' Relational Authenticity and Empathy Through the Lens of Peplau's Theory of Interpersonal Relations and Their Correlation With Recovery Capital in Individuals With Substance Use Disorder: A Rural–Urban Comparison

Abstract

Purpose: To compare relational authenticity and empathy among rural and urban psychiatric–mental health nurses and examine their correlation with recovery capital in individuals with substance use disorder (SUD) using Peplau's Theory of Interpersonal Relations as a conceptual framework. Method: Using a descriptive comparative study design, 278 participants were recruited from rural and urban psychiatric settings. Nurses ( n = 152) completed the Kernis-Goldman Authenticity Inventory, Interpersonal Reactivity Index, and Working Alliance Inventory–Short Version. Patients ( n = 126) with SUD were evaluated using the Brief Assessment of Recovery Capital. Results: A statistically significant difference was observed in responses regarding the relational orientation domain of authenticity, as well as the fantasy and empathic concern dimensions of empathy ( p = .013, p = .042, and p = .022, respectively). Empathy and therapeutic alliance were identified as significant independent predictors of authenticity among nurses. Higher levels of empathy and authentic engagement were positively associated with increased recovery capital in patients with SUD. Conclusion: Empathetic and authentic nurse–patient relationships, as framed by Peplau's theory, are critical to supporting recovery in individuals with SUD. Enhancing these relational competencies, especially in under-resourced rural settings, may improve mental health outcomes and reduce disparities in recovery support.