Impact of Emotional Intelligence on the Decision-Making Styles of Academic Leaders

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the relationship between the decision-making styles of academic leaders and their levels of emotional intelligence (EI). The sample consisted of Academic Deans, Heads of Departments, Professors, Associate Professors, and Assistant Professors. Data collection was carried out among academic administrators from universities in Kerala using questionnaires. Responses were successfully gathered from 497 employees, out of which 490 were deemed suitable for analysis. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 23, employing statistical tools such as mean scores, standard deviation, correlation, t-test, and f-test to derive meaningful conclusions. The findings indicate a significant impact of EI on the decision-making styles of academic leaders. Specifically, individuals with higher EI tend to employ an intuitive decision-making style, whereas those with lower EI are more likely to adopt a rational decision-making style. Emotional self-control emerged as a primary antecedent of EI. Additionally, no significant differences were found in EI quotients or decision-making styles based on gender or job experience among the respondents.