An Emotional Intelligence Management Approach -Angela Thomas Smith

 

Implementing an Emotional Intelligence Management Approach at

TDCJ: Strengthening Organizational Outcomes, Enhancing Officer

Retention, and Overcrowding.

Introduction

The purpose of this paper is to propose a strategic solution to the CEO of the Texas

Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) regarding the implementation of an emotional

intelligence (EI) management approach. With the aim of improving organizational outcomes,

addressing the declining trend in officer retention, and overcrowding within TDCJ, this proposed

solution will highlight the benefits of an EI approach and provide recommendations for its

successful implementation.

Current Challenges at TDCJ(EI and Motivation)

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) currently faces several challenges,

including overcrowding within its facilities. One contributing factor to this issue is the parole

data, which shows a high number of cases being considered but a relatively low approval rate.

“Over the past five years, the number of cases considered has ranged from 62,579 to 80,495,

while the approval rate has ranged from 33.00% to 39.32%”(TDCJ, 2). These figures highlight the

need for a more effective approach to managing the parole process and preventing the

overcrowding problem from worsening.Moreover, TDCJ is also grappling with a significant issue regarding officer retention.

According to the “Texas Workforce Commission, the turnover rate across TDCJ statewide has

increased from 24.8% in 2018 to 32.5% in 2022” (Clarke, 3). This high turnover rate is

concerning and has implications for the overall effectiveness and stability of the organization. It

is crucial for TDCJ to address the underlying factors contributing to officer turnover and

implement strategies to enhance officer retention. By doing so, the department can ensure a more

skilled and experienced workforce, thereby strengthening organizational outcomes and

improving the overall functioning of TDCJ.

The Significance of Emotional Intelligence (EI, Social Skills, and

Decision-Making)

Emotional intelligence plays a significant role within the Texas Department of Criminal

Justice (TDCJ) as it relates to strengthening organizational outcomes, enhancing officer

retention, and tackling overcrowding issues. In the context of TDCJ, emotional intelligence

“refers to the ability of staff members, including officers and parole board members, to

understand and manage their own emotions, as well as effectively navigate and respond to the

emotions of others”(Mary, 1).

By implementing an emotional intelligence management approach, TDCJ can improve

communication and decision-making processes, leading to more efficient and effective parole

evaluations. This, in turn, can help reduce overcrowding within TDCJ facilities by ensuring that

parole decisions are made with a comprehensive understanding of each case. Additionally,

promoting emotional intelligence among staff members can contribute to a more positive work environment, enhancing officer job satisfaction, reducing turnover rates, and ultimately

improving organizational outcomes. Overall, recognizing the significance of emotional

intelligence within TDCJ can lead to positive outcomes in various areas, reinforcing the

importance of integrating it into the management approach.

Proposed Strategic Solutions(Effective Teams)

In order to develop effective teams within the administration, parole board, and among

the inmates, certain core attributes must be embraced. Firstly, open communication channels

should be established to encourage transparency and understanding among team members. This

will foster a sense of trust and cooperation, promoting a positive team dynamic. Additionally,

individuals must possess a high level of self-awareness and empathy, allowing them to

understand the perspectives and emotions of others. By recognizing and valuing the diversity

within the teams, conflicts can be resolved more effectively, and collective goals can be

achieved.

Strategies that can be implemented to develop these team dynamics include providing

training and education on emotional intelligence and effective communication skills. This will

equip team members with the necessary tools to identify and manage their own emotions, as well

as understand and respond to the emotions of others. Regular team-building activities and

workshops can also be conducted to create a sense of camaraderie and foster stronger

relationships among team members. Furthermore, creating a supportive and inclusive work

environment where ideas and opinions are valued will encourage collaboration and innovation.

By prioritizing emotional intelligence in team development, the TDCJ administration can create

a work culture that promotes effective teamwork, leading to improved organizational outcomes, increased officer retention, and a more efficient approach to tackling overcrowding within the

prison system.

Conclusion

The implementation of an emotional intelligence (EI) management approach at the Texas

Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) holds significant potential for addressing the current

challenges of overcrowding and declining officer retention. The importance of emotional

intelligence in strengthening organizational outcomes and enhancing the overall functioning of

TDCJ cannot be overstated.

By fostering open communication, developing self-awareness and empathy among team

members, and valuing diversity within teams, effective team dynamics can be achieved.

Providing training and education on emotional intelligence, conducting regular team-building

activities, and creating a supportive work environment will further promote effective teamwork

and collaboration.

Integrating emotional intelligence into the management approach will not only improve

communication and decision-making processes, leading to more efficient parole evaluations, but

also create a positive work environment, enhancing officer job satisfaction and reducing turnover

rates. These strategies will ultimately contribute to the improvement of organizational outcomes

and the successful tackling of overcrowding within TDCJ.

Overall, prioritizing emotional intelligence in the management approach is crucial for the

long-term success and sustainability of TDCJ, supporting its mission of ensuring public safety

and effective rehabilitation.

References

1. Mary Uhl-Bien. 2023. Organizational Behavior. . Strayer University Bookshelf, (3rd Edition). Wiley Global

Education US.

2. Texas Department of Criminal Justice. February 1, 2023. Annual Statistical Report FY

2022. https://www.tdcj.texas.gov/bpp/publications/FY_2022_Annual_Statistical_Report.pdf.

3. Matthew Clarke. February 1, 2023. Guards Fleeing Texas Prison. Prison Legal News 3. Matthew

Clarke. February 1, 2023. Guards Fleeing Texas Prison. Prison Legal News |

https://www.prisonlegalnews.org/news/2023/jan/1/guards-fleeing-texas

prisons/#:~:text=According%20to%20a%20March%202022,higher%20still%2C%20at%2040.3%25..