Meta-analyses and structural equation modeling on the relationship between emotional intelligence, emotional blackmail, and work stress

BACKGROUND: This study provides valuable insights into the interplay between emotional intelligence, emotional blackmail, and work stress in organizational settings. It highlights the importance of emotional intelligence as a protective factor against the negative impact of emotional blackmail on employee well-being and performance. OBJECTIVE: The goal of this study was to develop a theoretical model that elucidates the relationships between emotional intelligence, emotional blackmail, and work stress. METHODS: This study employed a research method that combined meta-analyses and structural equation modeling (SEM) and was conducted in two stages. RESULTS: The finding that emotional intelligence indirectly influences work stress through its effect on emotional blackmail underscores the significance of fostering emotional intelligence among employees. CONCLUSIONS: Organizations can benefit from integrating emotional intelligence assessment tools into their recruitment processes to identify individuals with high emotional intelligence. Moreover, systematic emotional intelligence training and the promotion of supportive leadership styles can further enhance employees' emotional intelligence and interpersonal coping skills. By cultivating a workplace culture that values emotional intelligence and emphasizes open communication and mutual respect, organizations can mitigate the occurrence of emotional blackmail and create an environment conducive to employee well-being and productivity.