Examining the relationship between emotional intelligence and conflict management on a construction site

Abstract

This research study investigates the relationship between emotional intelligence, frequency of conflicts, and the preferred conflict management strategies on a construction site within the context of the local construction industry. The objective of the study was to showcase how emotional intelligence not only benefits individuals but also exerts a positive influence on conflict resolution skills within the context of construction projects. To achieve this, a quantitative descripto-explanatory approach was employed, involving an online questionnaire distributed to local construction professionals who have on-site work experience. Descriptive statistics, a series of one-way ANOVA tests, and correlation analysis was performed on the data to obtain the required information to answer the research questions and test the research hypothesis. The findings indicate that the current overall level of emotional intelligence is average, professionals encounter a moderate amount of conflicts, and the current preferred conflict management strategy is collaboration. The findings also indicate that professionals with a higher emotional intelligence tend to encounter less conflict on-site and they use a collaborative strategy to resolve conflicts. This research study contributes to the field of construction by highlighting the positive impacts that emotional intelligence has on conflict management. Future research should explore the effects of emotional intelligence on other dynamics required for a successful project such as team performance and job satisfaction.