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  3. Emotional Intelligence and Work Behaviour among Police Offic…
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Emotional Intelligence and Work Behaviour among Police Officers in Uganda: An Exploratory Study

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Social Science and Humanities JournalVol. 10 · No. 04 · (2026)📅 April 20, 2026pp. 9962-9970DOI: 10.18535/sshj.v10i03.2222 ↗
👁 1,773   ⬇ 134
Abstract
This theoretical research examined the impact of emotional intelligence (EI) on the work behavior of Ugandan police officers, emphasizing stress management, communication, and ethical behavior. The study employed a qualitative, desk-based method, examining secondary sources via thematic analysis. It analyzed the relevance of ability-based, mixed-model, and emotionally-focused organizational theories to the distinct policing situation in Uganda. Of these, Goleman’s mixed model proved to be the most pertinent, as it combines emotional regulation, empathy, motivation, and social skills, essential abilities for law enforcement professionals. For this analysis, five key themes surfaced from the literature review: (1) emotional regulation during high-pressure situations; (2) empathy and courteous public engagements; (3) ethical decision-making shaped by emotional insight; (4) emotional labor influenced by organizational standards; and (5) the impact of emotionally intelligent leadership on team unity. The results indicate that officers with emotional intelligence are more capable of handling stress, preventing misconduct, fostering community trust, and enhancing a positive work environment. Additionally, the literature emphasized that EI is not static, but can be enhanced through training and nurturing environments. Drawing from the results, the study advises including mixed-model EI training in police education initiatives in Uganda, integrating emotionally intelligent leadership approaches, and incorporating EI evaluations into hiring and performance assessments. Implementing these measures could improve not just the performance of individual officers but also boost the overall ethical standards, resilience, and effectiveness of the Ugandan police force within the community.
Keywords:Emotional IntelligenceWork BehavioursUgandan Police ForceEmpathySelf-Regulation
How to Cite
Matovu Kasim Ziryawulawo, Aina-Obe Shamsuddin Bolatito, Yusuf Ali Zoaka, Abdul Kaziba Mpaata (2026). Emotional Intelligence and Work Behaviour among Police Officers in Uganda: An Exploratory Study. Social Science and Humanities Journal, 10(04), 9962-9970. https://doi.org/10.18535/sshj.v10i03.2222

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