This descriptive study measures the attitude of ward based psychiatric nurses (n=59) towards nursing. Individual's attitude scores are correlated with the variables clinical grade, rank, age, time spent working on the same ward and attendance at the Open University courseSystematic Approach t o Nursing Care. Although some trends are identified none of the variables positively correlated with attitude toward the nursing process. Additionally, factors in the formation and maintenance of attitudes toward the nursing process of a small group of senior ward nurses (n=3) are explored using a structured interview schedule. Qualitative analysis of the interviews suggests a lack of clinical staff involvement in the introduction of nursing process and lack of activities aimed at maintaining positive attitudes toward the nursing process. The results are discussed in terms of Ajzen's (1988) attitude theory and Handy's (1985) organizational change theory. Recommendations are made concerning the introduction of future changes to the organization of the delivery of client care.