Examining the Relationships of Emotional Intelligence and Performance-Based Self-Esteem with Burnout among Pastor

Occupational burnout among pastors threatens their ability to provide sensitive, effective leadership to congregation and community members who seek spiritual guidance and emotional support during crises. This study examined the roles of emotional intelligence and performance-based self-esteem in the experience of burnout among pastors. Specifically considered was (a) how emotional intelligence relates to the perceptions of role conflict and role overload, (b) how emotional intelligence relates to personal accomplishment, and (c) the relationship between performance-based self-esteem and emotional exhaustion. Online survey data were collected from 263 pastors in the United States. Correlational and hierarchal regression analyses were used to examine the hypothesized relationships. A small but significant inverse correlation was found between emotional intelligence and role conflict. A large correlation between emotional intelligence and personal accomplishment was identified. A moderate, negative correlation was found between performance-based self-esteem and personal accomplishment. However, emotional intelligence did not moderate either role conflict and burnout or role overload and burnout. This research contributed to the understanding of burnout among pastors so that empirically informed programs can be designed to reduce burnout. These programs should enhance pastors' ability to render care to those in need, while preserving their own well-being. This study contributed to the growing research examining the relationships between burnout and both emotional intelligence and performance-based self-esteem.