Levels of Emotional Intelligence: A Study of Students in Kenya Medical Training College

Abstract

Nature bestowed humans with emotions. The stresses of the modern-day world have a negative effect; hence, people are becoming more emotionally volatile, less self-motivated, and less compassionate. Consequently, the levels of Emotional Intelligence (EI) continue to decline. Furthermore, the daily challenge of dealing effectively with emotions is critical to human beings because our brains are hard-wired to give emotions the upper hand: Our view of the world, how we react to it and adjust our behaviour accordingly is largely influenced by emotions. Emotional Intelligence (EI) skills are huge contributors to overall health as well as success in life, which is attributed to their impact on the ability to motivate and self-manage. This study assesses the level of EI among Students in Kenya Medical Training Colleges. The sample comprised 372 participants aged between 17 and 25 years. Data were collected using a researcher developed questionnaire and an emotional intelligence assessment tool with five components/subscales. These are: intrapersonal skills, interpersonal skills, stress management skills, adaptability, and general mood. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. The average scores for all participants were as follows: 41.9 for intrapersonal; 28.3 for interpersonal; 30.8 for stress management; 23.9 for adaptability; and 25.3 for general mood. Consequently, the overall average scores were 150.2 which falls under the high level of EI based on the criteria for measuring EI. The implication is that the students at Kenya Medical Training College have a high level of emotional intelligence