SPIRITUAL INTELLIGENCE AND CONFLICT MANAGEMENT STYLES AMONG HIGHER SECONDARY SCHOOL TEACHERS: A CORRELATIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Spiritual intelligence—the ability to behave with wisdom and compassion while maintaining inner and outer peace—has emerged as a critical construct in organizational behavior. Conflict management significantly influences workplace harmony. In educational settings, teachers face complex interpersonal dynamics demanding both competencies.

Objective: This study investigated the relationship between spiritual intelligence and conflict management among higher secondary teachers in Kerala, India, and examined variations based on locality (rural/urban).

Methodology: A descriptive correlational design employed 100 teachers selected through convenient sampling. Data were collected using the Spiritual Intelligence Scale and Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode Questionnaire. Pearson's correlation and t-tests were used.

Results: A strong positive correlation emerged (r = 0.684, p < .001), explaining 46.8% of variance. No significant locality-based differences were found.

Conclusion: Spiritual intelligence significantly predicts effective conflict management. Integrating spiritual intelligence cultivation into teacher preparation may enhance conflict resolution capabilities and foster harmonious educational environments.