Emotional intelligence profiles and self-concept in Chilean adolescents

Abstract

Generally, the emotional intelligence is related to a better individual adjustment and a greater self-concept, however, there are few researches that analyze how their different components of emotional intelligence influence this relationship. The objective of this study is identify different profiles in emotional intelligence based on their dimensions (Attention, Clarity, and Repair). Significant differences in self-concept domains among the previously identified profiles are also analyzed. The Trait Meta-Mood Scale-24 (TMMS-24) and the Self-Description Questionnaire-II-Short (SDQ-II-S) were administered to 1255 Chilean students. Four emotional intelligence profiles were identified using latent class analysis: a group of adolescents with a low emotional intelligence profile, a group with high scores in Emotional Attention and low scores in Emotional Repair, a group with predominance of low Emotional Attention and high Emotional Repair and, finally, a group of adolescents with high emotional intelligence. Results also revealed significant statistical differences among the profiles in most self-concept domains. Groups with high general emotional intelligence and low emotional attention and high scores in emotional repair obtained higher scores in the self-concept domains than the other groups. The results of this study contribute to knowledge of emotional intelligence and could be relevant in designing programs on emotional reasoning abilities and self-concept of secondary education students.