An Exploratory Investigation Into The Moderating Effect of Emotional Intelligence On The Emotional Labor and Burnout Relationship

Abstract

Emotional intelligence has received increased attention in recent years. Much of this attention is due to research that supports a direct relationship between emotional intelligence and positive organizational behaviors. However, little research has investigated the moderating effects of emotional intelligence. This paper addresses this gap in the literature by investigating the moderating effect of emotional intelligence tilt the emotional labor and burnout relationship. Results support significant direct relationships of both emotional labor and emotional intelligence on burnout. The self-awareness dimension of emotional intelligence also moderated the emotional labor and burnout relationship. Implications f or research and practice are discussed.