Research

Emotional intelligence and self-efficacy on innovative behavior of clinical dental hygienists

Mi-Hyun   Choi   Hee-Hong  Min1,*   

Samsung Family Dental Clinic
1Department of Dental Hygiene, Daejeon Health Institute of Technology

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to identify causal factors for continuous innovative behavior and devise a plan for effective member management by improving continuous innovative behavior. Methods: A self-reported questionnaire was filled out by 190 clinical dental hygienists from June 1 to July 31, 2019. Data were analyzed using SPSS 22.0. The independent t-test, one-way analysis of variance, Scheffe's post-hoc test, and Pearson's correlation coefficient analysis were performed, and a stepwise multiple regression analysis was conducted. Results: Dental hygienists scored 3.43 points in innovative behavior. Variables influencing innovative behavior were emotional intelligence, self-efficacy, and educational level. These factors had a variance of 47.5% among clinical dental hygienists. Conclusions: It is necessary to develop a regular program aimed at improving the emotional intelligence and self-efficacy of clinical dental hygienists to exert a positive work effect and improve their innovative behavior rather than assigning them simple tasks.

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