Affect Intensity as a Moderator of the Relationship Between Emotional Intelligence and Transformational Leadership

Affect Intensity as a Moderator of the Relationship Between Emotional Intelligence and Transformational Leadership by Robert T. Schaefer MBA, University of Phoenix, 2000 BA, Wright State University, 1992 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Organizational Psychology Walden University May 2015 Abstract Researchers have reported mixed findings on the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI) and transformational leadership, leading many to suspect the presence of moderating variables. This study was conducted to address the problem by analyzing the moderating effect that affect intensity may have upon this relationship. Based on a theoretical framework consisting of ability-based EI and the full-range theory of leadership, it was hypothesized that EI would be positively correlated with transformational leadership. In addition, based upon the arousal regulation theory of affect, it was hypothesized that affect intensity would be a statistically significant moderator of that relationship. A convenience sample of leaders (N = 142) working in the hospitality industry completed the Mayer Salovey Caruso EmotionalResearchers have reported mixed findings on the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI) and transformational leadership, leading many to suspect the presence of moderating variables. This study was conducted to address the problem by analyzing the moderating effect that affect intensity may have upon this relationship. Based on a theoretical framework consisting of ability-based EI and the full-range theory of leadership, it was hypothesized that EI would be positively correlated with transformational leadership. In addition, based upon the arousal regulation theory of affect, it was hypothesized that affect intensity would be a statistically significant moderator of that relationship. A convenience sample of leaders (N = 142) working in the hospitality industry completed the Mayer Salovey Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test, the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire form 5X, and the Affect Intensity Measure. Pearson’s Product-Moment correlational analysis revealed that, consistent with expectations, total EI scores and the managing emotions branch scores of EI were positively correlated with transformational leadership; however, the branch scores for perceiving, using, and understanding emotion were not. Contrary to expectations, affect intensity was not a statistically significant moderator in this sample. Findings from this research support the proposition that EI may best predict transformational leadership within service-based environments where employees face intense emotional labor demands. A thorough understanding of the ways in which EI predicts leader behavior will not only help organizations improve leader selection and development, but also help to improve vital social outcomes, such as employee job satisfaction, engagement, and well-being. Affect Intensity as a Moderator of the Relationship Between Emotional Intelligence and Transformational Leadership by Robert T. Schaefer MBA, University of Phoenix, 2000 BA, Wright State University, 1992 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Organizational Psychology Walden University May 2015 Dedication In addition to my parents Bob and Nanci, my brother Rick, and my many lifelong friends from childhood, this dissertation is dedicated to two very special people in my life. First, my wonderful, loving wife, Katrina Schaefer, who has sacrificed so much in time and treasure to make this dream possible. My dedication to you is in two parts, the first dedication is to recognize your immeasurable support and selflessness in helping me to realize a lifelong dream. The second is to express my dedication of loving gratitude to you in return. The days of being an academic widow are done, and it is time for us to look forward at the road that lies ahead. As your mom (and Billie Holliday) would say: I love you, just you and I, forever and a day. Second, I joyfully owe an enormous, if not bottomless debt of gratitude to Susan Steinbrecher. Your leadership, as well as your friendship and steadfast belief in me, is the biggest reason that I was able to realize this accomplishment. I say this not to take anything away my own hard work and tenacity to reach the goal, but rather, as recognition of a very simple yet powerful truth: that few things make a difference in this world more than an amazing leader. Although leadership competencies are largely learned, you are certain proof to the whole world that the very best leaders among us, arise first from the greatest human beings.