PSYCHOLOGICAL PREDICTORS OF EMOTIONAL LABOR AND FATIGUE IN DISASTER RESPONSE ENGINEERING TEAMS

Abstract

Responding to disasters puts a team of engineers under physical and emotional strain. They have to work in dangerous environments with little to no predictability and have to engage in emotional labor. This paper looks into how trait resilience, emotional intelligence, neuroticism, and cognitive flexibility affect emotional labor strategies and fatigue in such challenging situations. Using a multisite survey of 126 field engineers and emergency infrastructure specialists from three different regions, this study finds that surface acting greatly increases emotional exhaustion. Furthermore, deep acting ways counteracts stress when mediated by trait emotional intelligence. Also, perceived team support and individual coping style are analyzed as moderators in emotional fatigue trajectories. Using regression modeling alongside cluster-based profiling, three psychological archetypes are identified within response teams, revealing practical strategies for mental health and workforce screening. The paper reinforces psychological preparedness as essential for maintaining performance, personal well-being, and operational functionality in disaster zones. Recommended strategies include emotional and psychological skills training, resilience team-building, and workshops aimed to teach response units to engineers. This work aids in developing strategies aimed to respond to and mitigate emotional fatigue, helping achieve mission success alongside personnel longevity in emergency operations.