The Relationship Between Stress, Satisfaction, and Emotional Intelligence in College Students
The relationship between stress and satisfaction has been well documented. However, little is known about the possible mediating effect that emotional intelligence may have on that relationship. This study addressed the role emotional intelligence plays between stress and satisfaction. By collecting measures of stress, life satisfaction, satisfaction with school, and emotional intelligence, this researcher examined the question "Does emotional intelligence serve as a moderator in the relationship between satisfaction and stress?" Results indicated that, after removing the effects of stress, emotional intelligence and satisfaction demonstrated a positive significant relationship. Emotional intelligence was related to the Big Five factors of Conscientiousness, Extraversion, and Emotional Stability. No relationship was found between stress and life or college satisfaction. The results suggest that if college students can utilize emotional intelligence as a coping mechanism in the college environment, they will experience greater satisfaction that could then lead to a more positive college experience for the student and possibly a decreased rate of attrition for universities.
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