By Mark Bond, professor of criminal justice at American Military University
InPublicSafety.com
Law enforcement emotional intelligence is defined as the ability of the officer to manage and use his/her emotions in a positive and constructive way, and to manage healthy relationships within the department and within other supporting agencies in the criminal justice system (Allam, 2011; Dumbrava, 2011).
Officers who have a functionally high emotional intelligence level have higher satisfaction rates and better career success within their departments (Allam, 2011; Dumbrava, 2011). Workers who have the ability to build healthy workplace relationships have reported lower stress levels at work and healthier off-duty activities that bring balance to their lives (Allam, 2011; Dumbrava, 2011).
The main reason behind the higher job satisfaction is the officer’s ability to build relationships within the department. Higher levels of emotional intelligence means they often have a positive approach to conflict resolution with others (Allam, 2011; Dumbrava, 2011). Dr. Zafrul Allam (2011) noted emotional intelligence as having five distinct qualities.
Full Story: Managing Law Enforcement Stress Through Emotional Intelligence
