Abstract

The purpose of the present research as a descriptive-correlative research was to study the relationship between emotional intelligence and leadership styles of principals who work in high schools of Sanandj city in Iran. Sample included 42 high school principals and 252 teachers that were selected by proportional stratified sampling. The leadership styles profile (LSP) and emotional intelligence questionnaire were used as research instruments. Data analyzed by descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, Independent t test and One Way ANOVA. Results showed: (1) There was significant relationship between EI and two styles of leadership; (2) The relationship between self-awareness and leadership styles were not statistically significant; (3) There was positive statistically significant relationship between self-regulation and open style; (4) There was direct significant relationship between motivation and open style but indirect significant relationship with motivation and closed style; (5) There was positive statistically significant relationship between empathy and open style but negative relationship between empathy and closed style . So, effective principals will support and encourage teachers to model behaviors promoting collegiality and a professional working environment.

Key words: Emotional intelligence (EI), leadership styles, principals, self-awareness, social skills.