The paper studies the impact of emotional intelligence (EI) on the burnout of the faculty members. The moderating role of gender on the relationship between the variables, especially with respect to the faculty members in higher education institutions (HEIs) in India, has largely remained unexplored. The study underscores the importance of developing EI competencies for the faculty members in order to curb the burnout faced by them.
The study employs a two-wave research design method. In total, 153 faculty members employed by HEIs in India were administered the questionnaire measuring the variables undertaken for the study in two stages.
Empirical evidence revealed that EI is negatively related to burnout. Gender is found to moderate the relationship. Female faculty members were found to be more stable regarding the perception of burnout as compared to male faculty members at low and high levels of EI, even though they experience higher levels of burnout.
Importance of creating a supportive climate and social support measures in the HEIs for the faculty members has been mentioned. Additionally, training programs and focused interventions on EI based on gender have also been highlighted. The role of policymakers and people in leadership roles in academic institutions to address the issues of burnout has also been discussed.
The moderating role of gender on the relationship between the constructs chosen is an unexplored area in the chosen context. Measures for employing a preventive strategy to prevent burnout through the development of EI have been discussed.
