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.

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