Thwarting Burnout: Implementing Emotional Intelligence Leadership in First Responder Organizations

Abstract

First responders face stressful situations every day. It is the nature of their work. Nonetheless, during the COVID 19 crisis, there is little time for first responders to breath, let alone, focus, relax, and laugh. This paper explores in depth the usefulness of Emotional Intelligence Paradigm and the rationale for implementing this leadership strategy in first responder organizations. Emotional intelligence (EI) focuses on four quadrants of leadership behavior: self-awareness, self-management, empathetic awareness, and relationship management. These quadrants explore mood recognition, mindfulness, compartmentalization and humor. Hence, EI provides critical cognitive leadership strategies for practicing emotional health during prolonged periods of stress.

Presenters

Carole Huberman
Associate Professor of Public Administration, Public Administration Department- Andreas School of Business and Public Administration, Barry University, Florida, United States

James Talerico
Assistant Professor, PACE, Barry University, Florida, United States

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

Vectors of Society and Culture

KEYWORDS

Emotional Intelligence, First Responders, Mindfulness, Burnout