RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AND WORK ENGAGMENT AMONG NNAMDI AZIKIWE UNIVERSITY LECTURERS

THE MODERATING ROLE OF PSYCHOLOGICAL CAPITAL

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between emotional intelligence and work engagement among Lecturers at Nnamdi Azikiwe University and the moderating role of psychological capital in this relationship. A total of 273 academic staff conveniently sampled from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, participated in the study. Correlational design and multiple regression statistics were adopted for the study. Work Engagement Scale, Emotional Intelligence Scale, and Psychological Capital Questionnaire were individually administered to the respondents. The findings showed that a significant positive relationship exist between emotional intelligence and work engagement suggesting that lecturers with higher levels of emotional intelligence tended to exhibit greater dedication, vigor, and absorption in their work. Also psychological capital had a significant relationship with work engagement and moderated relationship between emotional intelligence and work engagement. It was recommended that universities should prioritize creating a conducive work environment that supports academic staff through provision of adequate physical resources, ensuring fair workload distribution, and promoting a positive organizational culture.