Management of stress and enhancement of emotional intelligence in IT professionals through positive therapy
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Date
2011
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Abstract
From a software company in Coimbatore, forty five IT professionals were screened using Case Study Schedule, S.I.
(Stress Inventory, Natesan and Menon, Revised 2005) and Emotional Intelligence Test (Chadha & Singh, 2004). Out of
them, 40 (22 male and 18 female) were selected by Purposive Sampling. As psychological intervention, Positive
Therapy, a package combining the Eastern techniques ofYoga and Western techniques of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
was used. The sample was divided into 3 batches of around 13 in a batch, for Positive Therapy. Six sessions of Positive
Therapy were given in two weeks, with each session lasting for one hour. After two weeks, the subjects were reassessed
using the Case Study Re-assessment Schedule, S.I. and Emotional Intelligence Test. After Positive Therapy,
there was a significant reduction in the mean stress from High' to 'Low' after Positive Therapy. There was a significant
increase in the mean emotional intelligence from 'Moderate' to 'High' after Positive Therapy. There was a negative
correlation between stress and emotional intelligence in the sample. The major causes of stress reported by the sample
were lack of time for socialization, adjustment problems at home, lack ofrecreation, work overload, responsibilities and
technological uncertainty. Some of the common symptoms of stress identified in the sample were short temper,
confusion and restlessness. Majority of the sample had back pain and head ache. The common negative emotions
reported by the sample were anger, fear, worry and anxiety. After Positive Therapy, there was a significant reduction in
the symptoms, pain and negative emotions experienced by the sample.