Impact of the Burnout Symptoms of Flight Attendants on Absenteeism and Turnover Intention: The Moderating Role of Emotional Intelligence

Abstract

This study investigates the mediating role of absenteeism on the relationship between burnout and turnover intention, and the moderated mediating role of emotional intelligence on the relationship between burnout and absenteeism among Korean flight attendants, utilizing a structural equation modeling approach. Empirical data were collected from 183 flight attendants with over 1 year of experience in the airline industry. Initial responses were analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis, revealing that burnout symptoms are driven by four factors: physical, emotional, socio-relational, and attitudinal. Subsequent data analysis indicated that all four factors significantly impact absenteeism and turnover intentions. Furthermore, emotional intelligence was found to play a significant moderating role in the relationship between burnout symptoms and absenteeism. As burnout symptoms increase, absenteeism levels rise, leading to higher turnover intentions. Finally, absenteeism was found to lead to turnover intentions. Possible interpretations and managerial implications are discussed.