Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION ..........................................................................................................................
2

1.1. Social Support ......................................................................................................................

1.1.1. TYPES OF SOCIAL SUPPORT ...................................................................................

1.1.2. Theories of social support ..............................................................................................

1.2. Emotional Intelligence .........................................................................................................

1.2.1 Theories of emotional intelligence .................................................................................

1.3. Resilience .............................................................................................................................

1.3.1 Types of Resilience: ....................................................................................................... 8

1.3.2 Theories of resilience......................................................................................................

1.4. Relationship between variables ..........................................................................................

1.4.1. Relationship between emotional intelligence and social support: ...............................

pg. 1
 1.4.2. Relationship between social support and resilience: ...................................................

10 1.5.

Summary: ........................................................................................................................... 11

Chapter Ⅰ

INTRODUCTION

This study aims to examine the relationship between social support, emotional

intelligence, and resilience, focusing on how these factors interact to enhance adaptability. By

addressing this gap, the research seeks to provide empirical insights that can inform the

development of educational, therapeutic, and community-based programs to strengthen

psychological well-being and resilience. Resilience, the capacity to adapt and thrive in the face

of adversity, is a vital concept in psychological research due to its significant impact on mental

health and well-being. Social support, which provides emotional, informational, and practical

resources, and emotional intelligence, the ability to understand and manage emotions, are

recognized as key factors in fostering resilience. However, the interplay between these two

factors and their combined effect on resilience remains underexplored.

1.1. Social Support

Social support refers to the emotional, informational, and practical assistance provided by

one’s social network, including family, friends, colleagues, and community members. It

encompasses the comfort and reassurance individuals receive in times of stress or adversity,

fostering a sense of belonging and security. Social support is the availability of interpersonal

resources that individuals can rely on to cope with life challenges. These resources may include

pg. 2
emotional encouragement, advice, tangible help, or the validation of one’s feelings and

experiences, which collectively contribute to psychological well-being and resilience. Defined

broadly, social support is the perception or experience of being cared for, valued, and part of a

supportive social network. It involves both the quality and quantity of relationships and can

positively influence physical and mental health by buffering the effects of stress. In

psychological terms, social support is an interactive process through which individuals gain

access to emotional sustenance, guidance, and material aid from their social connections. This

support plays a critical role in mitigating stress, enhancing coping mechanisms, and promoting

overall well-being. Social support is a multidimensional construct that includes various forms of

assistance, such as emotional support (expressions of empathy and love), instrumental support

(practical help), and informational support (guidance and advice). It is a key determinant of

mental health and resilience, enabling individuals to navigate adversity effectively.

1.1.1. TYPES OF SOCIAL SUPPORT

Social support helps individuals build confidence and resilience in times of stress. There

are four main types:

Emotional Support: This involves listening with empathy and providing compassion to

build trust in relationships. It allows individuals to share feelings and feel understood. A parent

comforting a preteen after heartbreak by providing a safe space to express emotions.

Instrumental Support: This refers to tangible help or acts of service that assist someone

in practical ways. A friend helping with carpooling or providing meals during a busy week.

pg. 3
1.1.2. Theories of social support

Buffering Hypothesis: The buffering hypothesis suggests that social support acts as a

protective layer, reducing the adverse effects of stress on individuals. According to this theory,

social support helps individuals cope more effectively during stressful situations by providing

emotional, informational, or instrumental resources. For example, during a crisis, emotional

support from friends and family can help an individual feel valued and cared for, reducing their

perception of threat. Similarly, instrumental support, such as financial assistance or physical

help, can directly alleviate stressors. By mitigating the impact of stress, the buffering hypothesis

highlights the role of social support as a stress moderator, enhancing psychological resilience and

overall well-being.

Social Convoy Theory: Developed by Toni Antonucci, the social convoy theory

emphasizes the dynamic nature of social support throughout an individual's life. This theory uses

the metaphor of a "convoy" to describe the network of relationships that accompany individuals

through life’s journey. These convoys consist of family, friends, and other significant individuals

who provide varying degrees of support based on the individual’s needs and life stage. The

theory posits that the size and composition of these convoys can change over time, adapting to

circumstances such as aging, career transitions, or health changes. Social convoy theory

underscores the importance of maintaining strong and reliable social connections to promote

emotional security, especially during life transitions or challenges.

Main Effect Mode: The main effect model posits that social support directly enhances an

individual’s overall well-being, independent of their level of stress. Unlike the buffering

hypothesis, which focuses on the interaction between stress and support, this model suggests that

having a robust support system contributes positively to physical and mental health at all times.

pg. 4
For instance, individuals with supportive relationships tend to have higher self-esteem, lower

levels of depression, and better immune functioning. The theory highlights that social support

fosters a sense of belonging and connectedness, which are fundamental for human well-being.

By providing consistent positive reinforcement, social support promotes healthier behaviors and

more adaptive coping mechanisms, enhancing long-term resilience and satisfaction.

1.2. Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage one’s own

emotions while also perceiving and influencing the emotions of others. It encompasses skills

such as self-awareness, emotional regulation, empathy, and effective communication, enabling

individuals to navigate social interactions and relationships successfully. Emotional intelligence

refers to the capacity to identify and understand emotional information, both within oneself and

others, and to use this awareness to guide thinking and behavior. It involves managing emotions

constructively to adapt to changing circumstances and resolve interpersonal challenges. Defined

as a key component of interpersonal effectiveness, emotional intelligence is the ability to use

emotional awareness to enhance decision-making, foster meaningful relationships, and achieve

personal and professional goals. It integrates both cognitive and emotional processes to respond

thoughtfully to various life situations. In psychological terms, emotional intelligence is the

ability to balance emotional expression with rational thinking, facilitating effective

problemsolving and conflict resolution. It includes recognizing emotional cues, empathizing with

others, and maintaining emotional control in stressful or complex situations. Emotional

intelligence is a multidimensional concept that involves understanding the impact of emotions on

behavior, harnessing emotions to drive motivation and creativity, and effectively managing

pg. 5
emotional responses in oneself and others. It plays a critical role in personal growth, leadership,

and overall psychological well-being.

1.2.1 Theories of emotional intelligence

Mayer and Salovey’s (1997) Ability Model: Ability Model defines emotional intelligence

(EI) as a cognitive ability that is distinct from, yet related to, general intelligence. The model

identifies four key branches of EI. The first branch, Emotion Perception, involves the ability to

recognize emotions in oneself, others, and external stimuli, forming the foundation for emotional

understanding. The second branch, Emotional Facilitation, highlights the role of emotions in

enhancing cognitive processes, such as adapting perspectives and reasoning effectively. The third

branch, Understanding Emotions, focuses on comprehending emotional vocabulary and

recognizing the dynamic interplay of emotions as they evolve over time. Lastly, Managing

Emotions emphasizes the ability to regulate one’s own emotions and positively influence the

emotions of others, fostering healthy interpersonal relationships and effective emotional

responses. Together, these branches outline a comprehensive framework for understanding and

applying emotional intelligence in various contexts.

Bar-On’s (2006) Emotional Social Intelligence (ESI) Model: Emotional intelligence (EI)

can also be defined as a blend of emotional, social, and practical competencies that enable

individuals to understand themselves and others effectively. It encompasses five key areas. The

first area, Intrapersonal Skills, includes emotional awareness, assertiveness, self-regard, and

self-actualization, focusing on self-understanding and personal growth. Interpersonal Skills, the

second area, involves empathy, social responsibility, and relationship management, emphasizing

the ability to connect with others and maintain meaningful relationships. The third area, Stress

pg. 6
Management, pertains to an individual’s ability to tolerate stress and control impulses, ensuring

resilience in challenging situations. Adaptability, the fourth area, highlights the importance of

flexibility in problem-solving and adjusting to environmental demands. Finally, General Mood

encompasses optimism and happiness, reflecting a positive outlook on life that supports overall

emotional well-being. Together, these areas form a comprehensive framework for understanding

and applying EI in personal and professional contexts.

Emotional Quotient Inventory (EQ-i): The Emotional and Social Intelligence (ESI) Model

offers a self-report measure designed to assess emotional and social competencies. This measure

encompasses 15 subscales, each addressing distinct facets of emotional and social intelligence.

One of its key strengths is its ability to adjust for social desirability, ensuring more reliable

responses. Additionally, it provides versions tailored for younger users, making it accessible

across age groups. However, the measure is not without its limitations. It is susceptible to biases,

such as respondents faking or exaggerating their answers to align with perceived expectations.

Furthermore, the measure exhibits overlap with personality traits, which may challenge its ability

to distinctly assess emotional intelligence. Despite these weaknesses, it remains a widely used

tool in EI assessment.

1.3. Resilience

Resilience is the ability to adapt and recover from adversity, stress, or significant life

challenges. It is not simply about avoiding difficulty but rather about using coping mechanisms

and personal strengths to bounce back and grow stronger after setbacks. Resilience refers to the

psychological capacity to withstand and overcome difficult circumstances while maintaining

emotional stability and well-being. It involves the interplay of internal resources, such as

optimism and self-efficacy, and external factors, like social support and environmental stability.

pg. 7
Defined as a dynamic process, resilience is the capacity to navigate through hardship and emerge

with enhanced coping skills and emotional strength. It reflects a person’s ability to maintain

functionality and positive outlooks in the face of ongoing challenges. In psychological terms,

resilience is the ability to manage stress and adversity effectively while preserving one’s mental

health and achieving personal growth. It involves traits like flexibility, problem-solving skills,

and the ability to regulate emotions under pressure. Resilience is a multifaceted construct that

encompasses the mental, emotional, and behavioral processes required to adapt positively to

change, uncertainty, or trauma. It is influenced by both individual characteristics, such as

perseverance and emotional intelligence, and external resources, such as supportive relationships.

1.3.1 Types of Resilience:

Psychological Resilience: Mental strength to adapt to crises without long-term distress.

Emotional Resilience: Ability to manage emotions healthily during adversity.

Physical Resilience: The body’s ability to recover from physical stressors or illness.

Community Resilience: Collective recovery and adaptation after events like natural

disasters or violence. Resilience is built through practice and is influenced by daily stressors and

significant adversities, emphasizing the dynamic and multifaceted nature of this ability.

1.3.2 Theories of resilience

Ecological Systems Theory: One key theory of resilience is the Ecological Systems

Theory, developed by Urie Bronfenbrenner. This theory emphasizes the role of environmental

systems in shaping resilience. It suggests that an individual’s ability to adapt and thrive in

adversity is influenced by interactions within and across multiple systems, such as family, peers,

pg. 8
schools, and broader societal contexts. Resilience emerges when these systems provide

consistent support and resources, enabling individuals to effectively cope with challenges

Developmental Psychopathology Theory: Another influential perspective is the

Developmental Psychopathology Theory, which focuses on resilience as a dynamic process over

time. This theory posits that resilience is not a fixed trait but rather an adaptive capacity that

evolves as individuals interact with their environments. Protective factors, such as secure

attachment, positive relationships, and emotional regulation skills, play a pivotal role in fostering

resilience by buffering against risk factors like trauma or chronic stress.

Resilience Theory: The Resilience Theory, developed by researchers like Michael Rutter,

views resilience as the ability to achieve positive outcomes despite adversity. This theory

highlights the balance between risk and protective factors in an individual’s life. Protective

factors, such as self-efficacy, problem-solving skills, and supportive relationships, act as buffers

that mitigate the impact of stressors, while risk factors, such as poverty or family instability,

increase vulnerability. Resilience is seen as a dynamic interaction between these factors, resulting

in the ability to adapt and recover in challenging situations.

1.4. Relationship between variables

Resilience, social support, and emotional intelligence are deeply interconnected,

collectively influencing an individual’s ability to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity. Social

support provides a safety net of emotional, informational, and practical assistance, which reduces

stress and enhances coping mechanisms. Emotional intelligence complements this by enabling

individuals to understand and manage their emotions effectively, fostering better relationships

and communication within their social networks. Together, these factors create a synergistic

effect, where social support reinforces emotional intelligence by providing opportunities for

pg. 9
emotional expression and validation, while emotional intelligence strengthens resilience by

promoting adaptive strategies and maintaining emotional balance during challenges. This

dynamic relationship highlights the importance of cultivating both external resources, like

supportive relationships, and internal skills, like emotional regulation, to build and sustain

resilience.

pg. 10
 1.4.1. Relationship between emotional intelligence and social support: The relationship

between emotional intelligence (EI) and social support is reciprocal and mutually reinforcing, as

both factors significantly contribute to an individual’s ability to build and maintain meaningful

relationships. Emotional intelligence equips individuals with the ability to recognize, understand,

and regulate their own emotions, as well as empathize with and respond appropriately to the

emotions of others. These skills are crucial for developing and sustaining supportive social

networks. On the other hand, social support provides the emotional and relational context in

which emotional intelligence can develop and flourish. Positive social interactions, facilitated by

supportive relationships, offer opportunities to practice emotional regulation, empathy, and

communication—key components of emotional intelligence. For instance, receiving emotional

support during challenging times can enhance an individual’s ability to understand their

emotions and those of others, strengthening their emotional intelligence over time. Furthermore,

individuals with higher emotional intelligence are better able to seek and utilize social support

effectively. They can express their needs clearly, establish trust, and navigate social dynamics

with greater ease, making it more likely for them to receive emotional, informational, and

practical assistance when needed. Conversely, the presence of robust social support can enhance

emotional intelligence by providing a safe environment for emotional expression and the

development of interpersonal skills. Overall, the relationship between EI and social support is

dynamic and symbiotic, with each factor reinforcing the other to promote emotional well-being,

interpersonal effectiveness, and resilience.

1.4.2. Relationship between social support and resilience: The relationship between

resilience and social support is well-documented, with social support playing a crucial role in

fostering and enhancing resilience. Social support provides individuals with emotional,

pg. 11
informational, and practical resources that buffer the impact of stress and adversity, making it

easier for them to adapt and recover from challenging situations. Resilience is the capacity to

bounce back from difficulties, and social support acts as a protective factor that strengthens this

ability. Emotional support, such as empathy and encouragement from family, friends, or

colleagues, helps individuals maintain a positive outlook and reduces feelings of isolation during

tough times. Instrumental support, such as tangible help or resources, provides practical

assistance that alleviates stressors, while informational support offers guidance and advice to

navigate challenges effectively. Research suggests that individuals with strong social support

networks are more likely to develop adaptive coping strategies, emotional stability, and

selfconfidence, all of which are essential components of resilience. Social support also provides

a sense of belonging and validation, which boosts mental well-being and motivates individuals to

persevere through adversity. Furthermore, the reciprocity inherent in supportive relationships

fosters resilience by promoting mutual trust, cooperation, and emotional connection. Finally,

General Mood encompasses optimism and happiness, reflecting a positive outlook on life that

supports overall emotional well-being. Together, these areas form a comprehensive framework

for understanding and applying EI in personal and professional contexts.

1.5. Summary:

Paramedic staff and firefighters work in high-stress, high-risk environments that demand

quick decision-making, emotional stability, and physical endurance. In such professions,

emotional intelligence, social support, and resilience play critical roles in maintaining their

mental health, job performance, and overall well-being. Emotional intelligence allows these

professionals to manage their emotions effectively, empathize with others, and communicate

efficiently during emergencies. This ability helps them handle high-pressure situations, build

pg. 12
strong team dynamics, and provide compassionate care to those in need. Social support, both

within their teams and from family or peers, acts as a protective factor against burnout and

psychological distress. A strong support network provides emotional comfort, practical

assistance, and a sense of camaraderie, which helps paramedics and firefighters cope with the

challenges of their roles. This support fosters a sense of belonging, reduces feelings of isolation,

and enhances job satisfaction, ultimately contributing to their resilience. Resilience, the ability to

adapt and recover from adversity, is crucial for paramedics and firefighters as they are frequently

exposed to traumatic events and life-threatening scenarios. It enables them to maintain emotional

stability, recover quickly from setbacks, and continue performing their duties effectively. The

interplay between emotional intelligence, social support, and resilience is particularly significant,

as emotional intelligence enhances the ability to seek and maintain supportive relationships.

Chapter II

Literature Review

2.1 International Researches

Abstract

pg. 13
 This study explores the relationship between stress, emotional intelligence, and work-life

balance among 120 paramedics with at least two years of experience, using a descriptive-

correlational design. (Kaplan & Markenson, 2024)Data collected via online questionnaires from

April to June 2023 revealed that long, demanding shifts, often exceeding 10 hours with night and

weekend duties, contribute to fatigue and moderate stress (average score: 87.07). Despite high

emotional intelligence, work-life balance suffers (score: 41.26), largely due to work-related

disruptions. Emotional intelligence correlates with slightly higher stress levels but also a modest

improvement in work-life balance. The findings emphasize the need for better sleep, breaks, and

healthier work practices to enhance the well-being of ambulance personnel. Further research is

recommended to deepen understanding of these relationships.

Paramedics have been essential in the healthcare system’s response to the COVID-19

pandemic as frontline responders. However, compared to other healthcare professionals, such as

nurses, there has been less research on how paramedics handle their work and manage their

resources under high workloads. This study explores various factors that drain paramedic

resources and highlights the role of family support in mitigating the effects of low resilience,

which can influence paramedics’ intention to leave the profession and their likelihood to engage

in promotive voice behaviors. This study aimed to explore the relationship between emotional

intelligence, conflict resolution, and resilience among rescue workers. Conducted as a cross-

sectional study, the research took place at the Lahore head office of Rescue1122, with data

collected over five months from August 2 to December 2, 2022. A total of 210 rescue workers,

aged between 22 and 40 years (M = 30.74, SD = 5.00), participated in the study, with

pg. 14
participants from Lahore (n = 89) and Bhakkar (n = 121) cities in Punjab, Pakistan. Using

purposive sampling, the study found a significant positive correlation between emotional

intelligence, conflict resolution, and resilience. Moreover, emotional intelligence subscales,

specifically perception of emotions and managing one’s emotions, were identified as strong

predictors of resilience. While there were notable differences in emotional intelligence and

conflict resolution between rescue workers in Lahore and Bhakkar, resilience levels were similar

across both cities. In conclusion, the study highlights a strong positive relationship between

emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and resilience, suggesting that higher emotional

intelligence and better conflict resolution skills contribute to greater resilience.This cross-

sectional study aimed to explore the relationship between paramedics’ resilience and their job

satisfaction, as well as identify the demographic predictors of these factors among paramedics

working for the Saudi Red Crescent Authority. A total of 300 paramedics completed

questionnaires that assessed their demographics, resilience (using the Connor and Davidson

Resilience Scale), and job satisfaction (using the Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire). The

average resilience score was 58.14 ± 4.66, indicating a moderate level of resilience, while the

average job satisfaction score was 39.38 ± 3.85. Approximately 40.3% of paramedics reported

low job satisfaction, while 59.7% reported moderate satisfaction. Pearson correlation analysis

revealed a positive correlation between resilience and job satisfaction (r = 0.20, p < 0.01).

Additionally, no significant relationship was found between age, marital status, and resilience or

job satisfaction. Multiple regression analysis indicated that job satisfaction was a significant

predictor of resilience, explaining 4% of the variance (t = 2.69, p < 0.05). The findings suggest

that higher resilience levels are associated with greater job satisfaction among paramedics. The

study highlights the importance of stress and resilience training and fostering supportive

pg. 15
workplace cultures to improve paramedics’ quality of life and job satisfaction, which could

ultimately enhance patient outcomes. The authors recommend further large-scale studies to

assess the effectiveness of interventions aimed at boosting resilience and job satisfaction in this

field.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) face significant challenges from high workforce

turnover and cost pressures, with voluntary turnover driving expenses like training, productivity

losses, and staffing shortages. This study examines the relationship between trait emotional

intelligence (EI) and turnover intention (TI) among EMS clinicians, analyzing a sample of 446

providers using validated surveys. Results indicate that higher EI is linked to lower TI (r = -.31,

p < 0.001), with specific EI factors such as Wellbeing, Self-Control, Emotionality, and

Sociability showing similar trends. However, other factors like physical health, stress, and

income were stronger predictors of TI. These findings highlight the importance of considering EI

in EMS workforce retention strategies and emphasize the need for better support for the mental

and physical health of EMS workers.This study examined the extent to which trauma workers

with lower levels of intelligence report more symptoms of PTSD. Earlier research suggests that

lower levels of intelligence account for some of the variance not explained by exposure alone in

combat veterans. The General Ability Measure for Adults was used to establish levels of

intelligence, and the Davidson Trauma Scale was employed to assess symptoms of posttraumatic

stress disorder. All 56 participants were EMTs and paramedics. (Rinker, n.d.)The subjects were

also given the Trauma Workers Incident Exposure Scale to measure trauma exposure and were

grouped by levels of traumatic exposure. Nine cells were formed in a 3x3 ANOVA, with three

pg. 16
levels of intelligence and three levels of exposure used in the design. This design was selected to

control for the potential confounding effects of trauma exposure and occupation. The results

suggest a negative correlation between IQ and symptoms of PTSD. The Trauma Workers

Incident Exposure Scale demonstrated acceptable reliability and validity scores. The scores on

the scale did not significantly differ among the three levels of exposure. Additional research is

needed to determine if these results can be replicated in other populations.

First responders face significant work-related stressors that can lead to trauma,

depression, and interpersonal challenges, affecting both their performance and personal lives.

Mindfulness-based interventions have proven effective in improving their mental and physical

health while enhancing resilience to stress. This article highlights the benefits of mindfulness for

first responders, with law enforcement officers as an example, and introduces two mindfulness-

based therapies and general techniques.(Chopko et al., 2018) Psychotherapists can use these

evidence-based methods to help first responders adopt mindfulness practices as resilience tools

during critical incidents and in daily life.

The psychological health and safety of firefighters has become a significant Issue for fire

services in Ireland, due to recent legislative changes and growing awareness of the stressful

nature of emergency situations. Critical incident stress management (CISM) initiatives have been

introduced to support the psychological health of fire crews and to protect individuals from

developing psychiatric illnesses, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Although

research has consistently questioned the efficacy of such interventions, little attention has been

pg. 17
given to how firefighters themselves construct their experiences of dealing with emergency

situations during their work.(Lobb, n.d.-b) This thesis addresses this gap by conducting both a

qualitative and quantitative investigation into how firefighters in Ireland discuss the incidents

they respond to. The first study presents a discourse analysis of the transcripts from seven focus

groups with 89 participating retained firefighters. Key discursive constructions were identified

and explored to determine how best to provide psychological support to fire crews. To further

investigate these discursive constructions, a quantitative study was conducted with an alternate

group of 40 firefighters using Q methodology. This triangulation allowed for the emergence of

subject positions that had not previously been considered in the development of psychological

support for firefighters.

This study investigated the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI) and psychological

wellbeing in male athletes over a three-month period. It also explored the mediating effects of

perceived social support and stress on this relationship. A total of 398 male athletes participated,

completing assessments for EI (Schutte Self-Report Inventory), psychological well being (Ryff

Psychological Well Being Scale), perceived social support (Multidimensional Scale of Perceived

Social Support), and perceived stress (Perceived Stress Scale–10). Structural equation modeling

revealed that perceived social support and stress partially mediated the link between EI and

psychological well being.(Malinauskas & Malinauskiene, 2018) Additionally, sequential

mediation showed that social support influenced stress, further shaping the EI-wellbeing

connection. The study also discussed its limitations and provided recommendations for future

research.According to Mitchell et al. (1990), the emergency service field is one of Western

society’s most challenging and potentially rewarding professions. The regular exposure to

potentially traumatic experiences can contribute to the development of mental health

pg. 18
complications, including high levels of job burnout, low levels of job satisfaction, negative well-

being, and potentially post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).While previous research has shown

that, in most cases, a critical incident or traumatic event is the driving force behind the

development of PTSD, more recent studies have emphasized the importance of work

environmental stressors in the development and maintenance of psychological distress, job

burnout, and job satisfaction among first-response personnel (Collins et al., 2003; Maia et al.,

2007). Collins and Gibbs (2003) found that the most influential stressors among police officers

were not related to traumatic experiences or critical incidents, but rather to concerns about the

working environment.

This study examined the coping strategies, resilience factors, PTSD symptoms, and

stressors impacting the health and safety of firefighters. A total of 128 firefighters from a large

urban fire department in Southern California participated in the survey, which assessed their self-

reported coping methods, scores on the Dispositional Resilience Scale 15-Revised (DRS15-R),

and a 4-item PTSD screening tool (PC-PTSD).The findings revealed that the most effective

coping strategies included humor, support from coworkers and family, exercise, and firehouse

kitchen table discussions. The DRS15-R scores showed that these firefighters exhibited

resilience levels comparable to West Point Cadets, even while facing chronic trauma.

Additionally, the PC-PTSD results indicated a PTSD prevalence rate of 9.8%, which is lower

than previously reported rates ranging from 1% to 37% in past studies (Alvarado, n.d.) . The

implications of these findings are discussed in relation to the behavioral and physical well-being

of firefighters. Job retention in firefighting is crucial for both individual firefighters and the

communities they serve. The high levels of stress inherent in the profession significantly impact

firefighter retention. This study explored the connection between personality types and stress

pg. 19
resilience in firefighters, based on Jung’s personality theory and its development through the

Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). Stress resilience and burnout were assessed using the

Coping Resources Inventory and the Maslach Burnout Inventory. (Umbarger, n.d.)Data were

collected from a convenience sample of 68 firefighters across 12 fire stations within a large mid-

Atlantic fire department employing nearly 1,000 firefighters.A MANOVA analysis identified a

significant relationship between personality type and stress resilience, with the iNtuitive-Judging

(NJ) personality type displaying greater use of social and physical coping strategies than other

personality types, as revealed by pairwise comparisons. The findings highlight the importance of

understanding how personality influences resilience to stress and burnout. Implications for fire

departments and mental health professionals include raising awareness about the role of

personality in stress management and resilience development. This study lays the groundwork

for further research to enhance resilience behaviors, potentially reducing job-related stress and

burnout among firefighters, and improving personnel retention.This study aimed to assess the

impact of an online mind-body training (MBT) program on stress, anger, coping strategies,

emotional intelligence, resilience, and positive and negative effects.(Jung et al., 2016) Forty-two

healthy women participated in the online MBT program, practicing 8–10 minutes daily for 8

weeks, while a control group of 45 women did not engage in the program. Psychological self-

report questionnaires were administered at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks. Data analysis using

repeated measures ANOVA and Student’s t-tests showed significant time x group interaction

effects on stress coping strategies, anger, emotional intelligence, negative affect, and resilience.

The results indicate that the online MBT program produced notable psychological benefits, with

improvements in these areas compared to the control group. These findings align with previous

pg. 20
results from offline MBT programs, suggesting the need for further neuroscientific research on

the stress and emotion-related effects of online MBT.

This study employed a quantitative, cross-sectional research design to investigate the

influence of protective factors and resilience on the psychological well-being of emergency

dispatchers. (Rasmussen, n.d.) Participants were emergency dispatchers currently working in

emergency communication centers across Michigan. The study was grounded in Resilience

Theory, focusing on predicting coping strategies. A total of 196 participants completed the

Resilience Scale and the COPE Inventory.Multiple regression analyses revealed that higher

resilience levels in emergency dispatchers were associated with lower behavioral disengagement

and greater positive reinterpretation, growth, and acceptance. The study provides an

interpretation of these findings and offers recommendations for future research.

In 2016, the United Nations estimated approximately 65.3 million refugees were

displaced worldwide due to armed conflict, persecution, human rights abuses, or generalized

violence. This massive movement has led to significant emotional and physical impacts on

refugees, as documented by numerous researchers. Refugees, unable to return safely to their

home countries, face substantial challenges during resettlement in host countries. Various

nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) globally provide essential services, including language

support, medical and mental health referrals, education, job placement, and financial assistance.

The United States, a leading country in refugee resettlement, has admitted over 3 million

refugees since 1975 through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program. This program, involving

multiple federal bureaus and nine contracted refugee resettlement agencies (RRAs), supports

pg. 21
refugees’ integration into new communities through a network of local affiliates. These

organizations are pivotal in helping refugees rebuild their lives and achieve stability in their new

environments. Emergency services are under immense pressure to provide programmes that can

safeguard its employees from the psychological effects of pressures encountered in their jobs.

There has been an increase in the number of pre-incident training programs targeted at helping

first responders maintain their psychological well-being following critical occurrences. These

include pre-employment screening programs, psychoeducation, operational training, line

manager training, and interventions to improve resilience, wellbeing, and stress management.

While these programmes were created with the finest of intentions, their efficacy varies. As a

result, it is unclear what training first responders should get prior to being exposed to crucial

crises. (Wild et al., 2020)In this analysis, we evaluate the current information and give

suggestions on what to and should not offer first responders before they are exposed to critical

occurrences. We found no evidence of the effectiveness of pre-employment screening or

psychoeducation as a standalone package, as well as little evidence for interventions aimed at

improving wellbeing and stress resilience – through current trials of empirically-driven

interventions for first responders show promise in preventing stress-related psychopathology.

Operational and line manager training demonstrated the most potential, but they must be tested

in high-quality trials with enough follow-up to make conclusions regarding their preventative

advantages.This study looks into the efficacy of an integrative group program consisting of four

4-hour sessions meant to improve emotional intelligence, empathy, resilience, and stress

management abilities among police officers.(Romosiou et al., 2018) This study included fifty

police officers, who were divided into two groups: the intervention group (n = 23) and the

control group (n = 27). Participants completed a variety of self-report questionnaires before,

pg. 22
throughout, and three months following the program’s implementation. The intervention group

had significantly higher levels of emotional intelligence, empathy, resilience, and stress

management compared to the control group. Furthermore, the beneficial effects persisted three

months after the intervention ended. This study presents empirical evidence to support the

usefulness of an intense, broad-based targeting group program that might be implemented into

Police Academies to benefit individuals, communities, and organizations.

Emotional intelligence is linked to better personal and social adaptation, particularly

among older adults, where it enhances life satisfaction and resilience—important factors in

aging. This study tested the impact of an emotional intelligence-based intervention on 125

healthy older adults, divided into treatment (n = 57) and control (n = 68) groups. Using TMMS-

24, SWLS, and BRCS assessments, results showed that the(Delhom et al., 2020)intervention

significantly improved emotional clarity and repair while reducing attention levels. Additionally,

resilience and life satisfaction increased in the treatment group. These findings highlight the

potential of such interventions to enhance emotional skills and quality of life in older adults,

supporting better adaptation during aging.The chapter Introduces the HEROES Project, an online

training resource that develops mental resilience. The goal is to provide the reader with insight

into a resource that can be used as an adjunct to employee assistance programs, critical incident

stress debriefing, and counseling. The HEROES Project is the first virtual training course that

combines the therapeutic tools of clinical and organizational psychology and provides first

responders access to a self-driven wellness program. (Thornton et al., 2019)This respects many

first responders’ preference for anonymous and private self-care, while the autonomous nature of

pg. 23
the training reinforces for all first responders that they are ultimately responsible for maintaining

their own wellness.

Disaster response work is linked to a range of psychological outcomes. In post-disaster

settings, social support is generally found to have a significant impact on mental health,

particularly among survivors. This review aimed to assess the effectiveness of social support for

different disaster responder groups. A search of published quantitative studies on social support

involving police officers, emergency medical responders, rescue and recovery workers,

firefighters, and military personnel was conducted across various academic databases. The

search included keyword searches, reference list reviews, and citation tracking, ultimately

resulting in 24 studies with 90 effect sizes being included in the final dataset. The articles were

coded, and the effect sizes were averaged using the Hedges–Vevea Random Effects model.

Nineteen psychological outcomes (such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress symptoms,

and psychological distress) and eight types of social support were coded. The review found that

social support was associated with various outcomes, including anxiety, burnout, depression, job

control, job satisfaction, psychological distress, turnover intentions, and work engagement, with

mean effect sizes ranging from −0.36 to 0.57. Most studies focused on perceived social support

and negative psychological outcomes. Social support was particularly correlated with outcomes

in police responders and rescue and recovery workers. The review highlights the broad impact of

social support on disaster responders, along with other factors, such as timing, that may

influence its effectiveness.2.2 Indigenous Research

Abstract

pg. 24
 This study aimed to explore the relationship between emotional intelligence, conflict

resolution, and resilience among rescue workers. Conducted as a cross-sectional study, the

research took place at the Lahore head office of Rescue1122, with data collected over five

months from August 2 to December 2, 2022. A total of 210 rescue workers, aged between 22 and

40 years (M = 30.74, SD = 5.00), participated in the study, with participants from Lahore (n =

89) and Bhakkar (n = 121) cities in Punjab, Pakistan. Using purposive sampling, the study found

a significant positive correlation between emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and

resilience. Moreover, emotional intelligence subscales, specifically perception of emotions and

managing one’s emotions, were identified as strong predictors of resilience. While there were

notable differences in emotional intelligence and conflict resolution between rescue workers in

Lahore and Bhakkar, resilience levels were similar across both cities. In conclusion, the study

highlights a strong positive relationship between emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and

resilience, suggesting that higher emotional intelligence and better conflict resolution skills

contribute to greater resilience.

2.3 Summary

The text reviews various studies examining the psychological challenges and resilience

factors affecting first responders and emergency workers, emphasizing the interplay between

stress, emotional intelligence, resilience, and job satisfaction. Paramedics face long shifts,

fatigue, and disrupted work-life balance, with emotional intelligence offering both benefits and

pg. 25
drawbacks. Mindfulness-based interventions and programs like the HEROES Project show

promise in improving stress management, resilience, and overall well-being, while tailored group

interventions enhance emotional intelligence, empathy, and coping strategies. Social support,

particularly from coworkers and families, plays a crucial role in mitigating stress and burnout,

with evidence suggesting its effectiveness in improving job satisfaction and reducing turnover,

especially among police officers and rescue workers. Critical Incident Stress Management

(CISM) initiatives, while helpful, require further evaluation, as do pre-employment screening

and psychoeducation programs. Demographic factors, personality types, and resilience training

significantly influence stress management and job satisfaction, highlighting the need for

individualized approaches. Additionally, resilience and social support correlate with positive

psychological outcomes, reducing symptoms of PTSD, depression, and anxiety. The findings

collectively emphasize the importance of integrated interventions, workplace support systems,

and ongoing research to better support the mental health and retention of emergency personnel.

2.4 Rationale

Emergency workers and first responders face unique psychological challenges due to

high-stress environments, long shifts, and exposure to traumatic events. The reviewed studies

highlight the critical role of resilience, emotional intelligence, and social support in mitigating

negative outcomes like burnout, PTSD, and low job satisfaction. Mindfulness-based

interventions, resilience training, and structured group programs are effective in improving

emotional intelligence, stress management, and coping strategies. Social support, both

professional and personal, consistently emerges as a protective factor, enhancing well-being and

pg. 26
reducing turnover. However, the varying efficacy of interventions like CISM and pre-

employment screening underscores the need for evidence-based approaches tailored to individual

and organizational needs. Understanding the interplay of personality traits, work-life balance,

and resilience can help optimize support systems and interventions, ensuring the mental health

and job satisfaction of emergency workers. This rationale calls for further research and

development of comprehensive strategies to safeguard the well-being of this vital workforce.

2.5 Objective

Objectives of the Provided Text:

Examine Psychological Challenges: To explore the mental health challenges faced by

emergency workers, including stress, PTSD, burnout, and low job satisfaction, due to the nature

of their work environments.Assess Resilience and Emotional Intelligence: To investigate the role

of resilience, emotional intelligence, and coping strategies in enhancing psychological well-

being among emergency workers. Evaluate Intervention Effectiveness: To review the efficacy of

various interventions, such as mindfulness-based programs, resilience training, and emotional

intelligence development, in improving mental health outcomes. Understand Social Support

Dynamics: To highlight the significance of social support, including personal and professional

networks, in mitigating psychological distress and fostering well-being.

Analyze Work-Related Stressors: To identify specific work-related factors, such as long

shifts, trauma exposure, and organizational stressors, that impact the mental health of first

responders. Provide Practical Recommendations: To propose evidence-based strategies and

interventions aimed at improving the mental health and resilience of emergency personnel.

pg. 27
 Promote Further Research: To emphasize the need for additional studies on tailored

interventions, including their long-term effectiveness and applicability across different

emergency responder populations. Optimize Workforce Retention: To explore the relationship

between psychological well-being, job satisfaction, and turnover intentions, with a focus on

strategies to retain emergency personel.

2.6 Hypothesis

Higher levels of social support, emotional intelligence, and resilience are hypothesized to

significantly reduce stress and burnout while enhancing psychological well-being and job

satisfaction among first responders.

References:

pg. 28
pg. 29