LINKING EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AND WORK-LIFE BALANCE AMONG NNAMDI AZIKIWE UNIVERSITY LECTURERS: THE MEDIATING EFFECT OF PSYCHOLOGICAL CAPITAL

Abstract

This study examined the mediating role of psychological capital in the relationship
between emotional intelligence and work-life balance. A total of 296 academic staff members from
Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, were conveniently sampled and participated in the study. A
cross-sectional survey design was adopted, while multiple regression was adopted to analyse the
study data. The Work-Life Balance Scale, the Schutte Self-Report Emotional Intelligence Test,
and the Psychological Capital Questionnaire were individually administered to the participants.
The findings showed that emotional intelligence did not predict work-life balance. However,
emotional intelligence positively influenced psychological capital. Psychological capital also
predicted work-life balance and fully mediated the relationship between emotional intelligence
and work-life balance. The finding establishes both theoretical and empirical evidence on the
importance of internal resources as a motivation to lean on when facing challenges regarding the
balance between work and personal life. It then recommends that academic institutions establish
training programs to enhance self-awareness, emotional regulation, and management, ensuring
their staff enjoy a better work-life balance.