Final answer:
Emotional stability, or low neuroticism, is strongly related to work success as it enables better stress management, higher job satisfaction, and the fostering of positive relationships in the workplace. Stable individuals are better equipped to focus, feel integral to their work, and are less vulnerable to the negative effects of perceived job stress and risk.
Step-by-step explanation:
Emotional Stability and Work Success:
Emotional stability, also known as low neuroticism, is associated with experiencing fewer negative emotions and possessing a calm and even-tempered disposition. When considering work success, individuals with low neuroticism tend to handle stress better and demonstrate a greater sense of resilience. This trait contributes to a higher level of job satisfaction, as such individuals are less likely to perceive their environment as stressful or risky, which can lead to a reduced sense of vulnerability. Watson and Clark (1984) observed that those with high levels of neuroticism frequently feel anxious and unhappy, which can negatively impact their work performance and satisfaction.
In the workplace, emotional stability can facilitate the creation of positive relationships with coworkers, thus increasing work satisfaction and potentially leading to career advancement. Moreover, stable emotions result in better focus, lower absenteeism, and longer tenure in roles. In contrast, a lack of connection and increased feelings of loneliness can diminish work productivity and motivation.
Furthermore, the Eysencks' theory suggests that people with high emotional stability require more stimulation to trigger their fight-or-flight response, thereby making them more resilient in the face of job stressors. Individuals with stable emotions also tend to be integrally involved in decision-making processes, feel they have control over their work, and experience freedom from excessive surveillance, all of which are factors that contribute to job satisfaction according to research by Melvin Kohn and colleagues (1990).