RESUMEN
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to identify factors affecting the social distance between minority groups and nursing cadets. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey design was used. A questionnaire was distributed to the entire Armed Forces Nursing Academy cadets. Data from 273 nursing cadets were analyzed using t-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficients and Stepwise multiple regression. RESULTS: Social distance had positive correlations with collective identity (r=.28) and multiculturalism (r=.37). A negative correlation was found between social distance and perceived threat (r=-.38). Perceived threat, multiculturalism, collective identity, and frequency of contact with minorities were identified as factors affecting the social distance. The model explained 24% of the variables. CONCLUSION: To effectively respond to the minority groups' nursing needs in the army, educational programs which help to reduce the perceived threat, to strengthen multiculturalism, and to establish a healthy collective identity of nursing cadets need to be developed.