Navigating reactive sabotage in clergy leadership : cultivating courage and resilience amid conflict through self-differentiation and emotional intelligence

1 online resource (ix, 213 leaves)

Includes abstract.

D. Min. Covenant Theological Seminary 2025

Includes bibliographical references (leaves 203-213)

Titel

• Navigating reactive sabotage in clergy leadership : cultivating courage and resilience amid conflict through self-differentiation and emotional intelligence

Zuletzt geändert

• 08/04/2025

Schöpfer

• Richmon, David M.

Abstract

• This research study examines the phenomenon of reactive sabotage in congregational leadership and its impact on clergy and their ability to maintain self-differentiation amid conflict. Reactive sabotage, in a clerical setting, can be defined as an immediate process designed to bring the emotional system back to homeostasis, often occurring when ministers initiate change within their communities. Findings in the literature reveal that such conflict causes significant emotional, physical, cognitive, and relational distress for clergy, creating a leadership crucible where they may experience what Edwin Friedman referred to as a “failure of nerve,” the temptation to forsake their self-differentiation under the pressure of togetherness. Through in-depth qualitative analysis, this study identifies key competencies that enable clergy to navigate sabotage effectively, including emotional intelligence, spiritual resilience, cognitive clarity, and relational adaptability. These attributes assist leaders in clarifying their vision while fostering meaningful connections with opponents. Additionally, the research emphasizes courage as an essential trait for pastoral leadership. Grounded in a deep relationship with Jesus Christ, courage serves as an emotional process that empowers clergy to confront fear, persevere through trials, and uphold their convictions in the face of adversity. This research provides insight into the challenges and strategies associated with reactive sabotage and offers practical guidance for clergy navigating leadership conflicts. Ultimately, it aims to equip pastoral leaders with the tools to endure opposition while fostering resilience, peace, and unity within the church.

Mitwirkender

• Covenant Theological Seminary

Datum erstellt

• 2025

Identifikator

• Richmon_David_DMin_2025.pdf
• 1525861274

Sprache

• English

Herausgeber

• Covenant Theological Seminary

Ressourcentyp

• Dissertation

Rechteerklärung

• In Copyright

Fach

• Christian leadership
• Church management
• Reformed Church -- Clergy -- Interviews
• Conflict management -- Religious aspects -- Christianity
• Courage -- Religious aspects -- Christianity
• Bowenian family therapy
• Emotional intelligence

Datei Format

• PDF