EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AND CONFLICT RESOLUTION STRATEGIES AMONG COUNSELLORS AND PUBLIC OFFICIALS IN OWERRI MUNICIPAL COUNCIL, IMO STATE

Abstract

Emotional intelligence and Conflict resolution Strategies among counsellors and public officials in Owerri Municipal Council, Imo State. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, involving a population of 300 practicing counsellors, from which a sample of 150 was randomly selected using a stratified sampling technique. Data were collected using a validated structured questionnaire titled “Emotional Intelligence, Conflict Resolution and Counselling Effectiveness Questionnaire (EICRCEQ)”. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, ANOVA, and t-tests, while qualitative data were thematically analyzed. Findings revealed that counsellors exhibited high levels of emotional intelligence, particularly in empathy, self-awareness, and relationship management. EI was found to be significantly and positively correlated with constructive conflict resolution styles (collaboration and compromise) and counselling effectiveness. However, the study also found that formal training in emotional intelligence was lacking among most professionals, despite a strong desire for such training. The study concludes that emotional intelligence is a vital skill in conflict management and counselling. It recommends that emotional intelligence (EI) training should be systematically integrated into professional development programmes, school curricula, and public service policies as a strategic approach to improving conflict management, strengthening interpersonal relationships, enhancing productivity, and promoting emotional well-being across institutions within Owerri Municipal Council.