Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Department

Psychological Sciences

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

The aim of the current study was to determine the relationship between emotional intelligence and leadership emergence and transformational, transactional, and passive-avoidant leadership styles. Prior research has indicated that emotional intelligence is positively correlated with leader effectiveness. However, the relationship between emotional intelligence and additional aspects of leadership and leadership styles has not been thoroughly investigated. The current study hypothesized that emotional intelligence would be positively correlated with leadership emergence, and transformational and transactional leadership styles, and negatively correlated with a passive-avoidant leadership style. Additionally, it was hypothesized that leadership emergence would be positively correlated with transformational and transactional leadership styles, and negatively correlated with a passive-avoidant leadership style. The 555 full-time employed adults who made up the participants for this study completed surveys measuring their levels on each variable based on their self-reported behaviors. The results suggested that emotional intelligence is positively correlated to leadership emergence, and transformational and transactional leadership styles, and leadership emergence was positively correlated to transformation and transactional leadership styles. Emotional intelligence was also negatively correlated with passive-avoidant leadership style. There was no significant correlation found between leadership emergence and passive-avoidant leadership style. The findings support the use of emotional intelligence scales as a predictor of leadership behavior, and the application of these scales for employee selection and training practices in the workplace. The current study encourages future research into the subtypes of emotional intelligence and their impact on various qualities of leadership.

Advisor(s) or Committee Chair

Dr. Amber Schroeder

Disciplines

Other Psychiatry and Psychology | Psychiatry and Psychology

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