New Insights on the Mediating Role of Emotional Intelligence and Social Support on University Students' Mental Health during COVID-19 Pandemic: Gender Matters.

Carla Barros,Ana Sacau-Fontenla

doi:10.3390/ijerph182412935

Carla Barros, Ana Sacau-Fontenla

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182412935

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Abstract

Due to the demanding changes caused in the population by the COVID-19 pandemic, including a persisting experience of fear and social isolation, multiple studies have focused on the protective role of several psychological characteristics on mental health. Emotional intelligence and social support are commonly linked to mental health and well-being. The present study aims to analyze the mediator role of emotional intelligence and social support on university students’ mental health, taking into consideration the role of gender differences. An online questionnaire was administered to a sample of 923 university students during the COVID-19 lockdown in Portugal. Significant gender differences were found on mental health symptoms, emotional intelligence, and social support. A double mediation model was computed to verify if gender influences on mental health were mediated by emotional intelligence and social support. The results show indirect effects of gender on mental health. However, as both mediators mediate in the opposite direction, the total indirect effects become null. Thus, a strong direct effect of gender on mental health remains. The results of the present study have theoretical implications on protective factors of mental health by gender and practical implications for psychological intervention in university counselling services.

Highlights

The pandemic associated with COVID-19 has triggered new challenges for humanity caused by a virus with a high rate of contagion
This study aims to analyze the role of emotional intelligence and social support on university students’ mental health in the pandemic
Correlation analysis shows a significant relation between emotional intelligence, social support and mental health

Summary

Introduction

The pandemic associated with COVID-19 has triggered new challenges for humanity caused by a virus with a high rate of contagion. The past two years have been marked by restrictions with several confinements established by all countries which have had a high economic and social impact. The restrictions imposed by this situation caused an increase in psychological disorders, compromising the mental health of the population [3,4,5]. This health calamity has affected emotional and social stability, risking the well-being and mental health of the population today and for years to come [6,7]. Negative emotions gain expression, leading to an increase in depression, anxiety, and stress in the population [8,9,10]. Manifestations of feelings of sadness, uncertainty, fear, hopelessness, as well as disrupted sleep patterns and concentration were found in younger people [11,12]

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