A STRUCTURAL EQUATION MODEL OF CONFLICT MANAGEMENT STYLES AMONG SCHOOL LEADERS OF HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS IN REGION XI

Education, Educational Leadership, Higher Education Institution

This study examined the relationships among Trait emotional intelligence, organizational climate, leadership styles, and conflict management styles among school leaders in private higher education institutions (HEIs) in Region XI, Philippines. Using quantitative descriptive-correlational design, data from 317 school leaders were analyzed through Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). Results indicate high levels of emotional intelligence, organizational climate, and leadership styles, with democratic and transformational styles being most prominent. Accommodating and collaborating conflict management styles were frequently observed, fostering effective teamwork. The SEM demonstrated a best-fit model, highlighting significant direct influences of organizational climate and leadership styles on conflict management styles, while emotional intelligence showed indirect effects mediated by other factors. Key indicators such as sociability, collaboration, and transformational leadership emerged as critical contributors to effective conflict management. This study fills a gap in multivariate research in the Philippine context, particularly in the private HEI sector. Practical implications include enhancing leadership practices, fostering positive organizational climates, and refining conflict management strategies. By contextualizing findings within Region XI, the study offers a framework for targeted interventions, promoting institutional resilience and effective leadership.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.