The Predictive Relationship of Trait Emotional Intelligence with Life Satisfaction among Adolescents

Abstract

Every phase of life of human development brings various challenges and Adolescence is one of them. It is a critical developmental period shaped by cognitive, emotional, and social transitions that significantly affect well-being. Current study investigates the predictive role of trait emotional intelligence (EI) on life satisfaction among adolescents, while also exploring gender differences. A mixed sampling approach was used. A sample of 400 adolescents (aged 10–18 years) completed the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire Short-Form and the Satisfaction with Life Scale. Linear regression analysis revealed that trait EI significantly predicted life satisfaction (LS), accounting for 17% of its variance. Female adolescents reported significantly higher levels of both EI and LS than males. These findings contribute to the cross-cultural understanding of adolescent psychological functioning and underscore the need for gender-responsive, emotionally focused educational interventions in low- and middle- income settings. Future research should explore additional mediators and moderators to better understand the complex interplay between emotional traits and well-being across sociocultural contexts.