The impact of emotional intelligence in the military workplace

Abstract

Armed forces are expected to support operations domestically and internationally. To perform their assigned duties, optimal preparation to participate in today’s complex security environment and in a wide range of operations is crucial. Central to these complexities are the psychosocial challenges that such an intense work environment creates. This article explores the impact of Emotional Intelligence (EI) in the military domain. Literature from various countries confirms a strong link between the competencies associated with EI and leaders’ responsibilities. EI can be taught, developed, and enhanced as a group of competencies that directly affect the efficiency of a leader. Research has established a number of protective variables that could reduce the impact of stress on military personnel’s emotional health and behavioural issues. We provide evidence that EI training and EI interventions help, improve, and moderate the individual’s capacity to adapt to and manage stress and traumatic experiences. We also explore the implications for Human Resource Development (HRD) whose role is pivotal in the military career cycle; from pre-deployment during the formative years by developing soldiers through responsive, tailored, and effective programmes, to post-deployment with initiatives to improve career development, job fulfilment and the successful integration of veterans into civilian life.

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