Publication Date
Summer 2014
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Psychology
Advisor
Altovise Rogers
Subject Areas
Psychology
Abstract
This cross-sectional study examined the mediating effect of affect-related traits on the relationship between work engagement and job performance. Specifically, a sample of 225 students from a large state university was used to examine the effect of trait emotional intelligence (EI) on work engagement and both in-role and extra-role performance. It was found that work engagement directly impacted both in-role and extra-role performance, indicating that engaged workers are more likely to perform well both on job-related tasks (in-role performance) and also on going above and beyond what was expected of them in their job role (extra-role performance). In addition, work engagement was predictive of trait EI, indicating that engaged workers were more likely to use affect-related traits in the workplace than those less engaged. Further, trait EI was predictive of both in-role and extra-role performance, suggesting that effectively managing one's emotions, exhibiting strong social skills, demonstrating self-control, and displaying a general sense of well-being (i.e., trait EI) can lead to improved performance on the job. Lastly, work engagement and both in-role and extra-role performance were partially mediated by trait EI. This study provides new information about trait EI and its effect on job-related behaviors in an applied setting.
Recommended Citation
Jackson, Lisa, "The Work Engagement and Job Performance Relationship: Exploring the Mediating Effect of Trait Emotional Intelligence" (2014). Master's Theses. 4467.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.31979/etd.3kz9-sguw
https://scholarworks.sjsu.edu/etd_theses/4467
