How Does LMX Impact on Leader’s Emotional Intelligence? Assessing the Moderating Role of Interpersonal Conflict

This study examines the relationship between Leader-Member Exchange (LMX) and Emotional Intelligence (EI) development in leaders, with a focus on the moderating role of interpersonal conflict. Using a sample of 25 professors (leaders) and 110 assistants (followers) from Gachon University, South Korea, the study employed a three-phase survey to collect data on LMX, EI, and interpersonal conflict. Results indicated a significant positive relationship between high-quality LMX and the development of leaders' EI, particularly in the areas of emotional regulation and self-awareness. Interpersonal conflict moderated this relationship, with low conflict enhancing the positive effects of LMX on EI, while high conflict weakened it. Additionally, frequent interaction between leaders and followers was associated with greater EI development, while infrequent interaction led to stagnation in EI growth. These findings provide new insights into the reciprocal relationship between LMX and EI and highlight the importance of interaction frequency and conflict management in leadership development.