This qualitative study explores nurses' perspectives on their professional self-concept and the factors influencing it, using the PERMA theory and Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) as theoretical frameworks. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 nurses from six public hospitals in China. The data were analyzed thematically using inductive and deductive approaches. Nurses' understanding of professional self-concept was categorized into four themes: professional identity, competence, care, and knowledge. Factors influencing professional self-concept were categorized into three domains: personal factors (psychological qualities and attitudes), occupational-related behavioral factors (role-oriented and knowledge-oriented behaviors), and work environment and external factors (external evaluations, perceptions, time allocation, nursing tasks, work atmosphere, school education, and perceived supports). The study found that while nurses had different personal experiences, their perceptions of professional self-concept were similar. Personal factors such as positive mindset, resilience, self-regulation, compassion, responsibility, and leadership were crucial. Occupational-related behavioral factors included role achievement, knowledge reserves, and effective communication. External factors such as social stereotypes, work environment, school education, and perceived supports also significantly influenced professional self-concept. The findings highlight the importance of enhancing mental health literacy, developing positive attitudes, and providing support and training to improve nurses' professional self-concept. This can help foster their career development and provide high-quality patient care. The study also suggests that future interventions should focus on these factors to support and motivate nurses.This qualitative study explores nurses' perspectives on their professional self-concept and the factors influencing it, using the PERMA theory and Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) as theoretical frameworks. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 nurses from six public hospitals in China. The data were analyzed thematically using inductive and deductive approaches. Nurses' understanding of professional self-concept was categorized into four themes: professional identity, competence, care, and knowledge. Factors influencing professional self-concept were categorized into three domains: personal factors (psychological qualities and attitudes), occupational-related behavioral factors (role-oriented and knowledge-oriented behaviors), and work environment and external factors (external evaluations, perceptions, time allocation, nursing tasks, work atmosphere, school education, and perceived supports). The study found that while nurses had different personal experiences, their perceptions of professional self-concept were similar. Personal factors such as positive mindset, resilience, self-regulation, compassion, responsibility, and leadership were crucial. Occupational-related behavioral factors included role achievement, knowledge reserves, and effective communication. External factors such as social stereotypes, work environment, school education, and perceived supports also significantly influenced professional self-concept. The findings highlight the importance of enhancing mental health literacy, developing positive attitudes, and providing support and training to improve nurses' professional self-concept. This can help foster their career development and provide high-quality patient care. The study also suggests that future interventions should focus on these factors to support and motivate nurses.