Assessment of Emotional Intelligence in First Year Medical Students: A Questionnaire Based Study

Abstract

Background: Emotional intelligence (EI) is increasingly made reference to in medicine and other healthcare disciplines. Assessment of EI is an important factor in determining students' adjustment and educational achievements. Lack of attention to this period of life can cause or intensify psychological disorders and lead to failure in social and educational performances. Objectives: To assess Emotional Intelligence (EI) in first year medical students and to correlate EI with their personal and social factors. Methods: The study included 150 first year medical students. Informed consent and ethical clearance was obtained. Self-constructed proforma was used to collect sociodemographic profile. EI was assessed using emotional quotient self-assessment checklist to which subjects responded on five-point likert scale. The data obtained was statistically analysed. Results: 33.6% of first year medical students were poor in all domains of EI (score <20 as cut-off). Those who entered profession by choice, those who slept well and who spent more time in recreational activities and exercise were found to have good EI scores (p<0.05). EI was significantly more in females compared to males (p=0.02). Positive correlation was found among different domains of EI. Conclusion: Good EI includes ability to understand and control emotions, to be empathetic, to be socially competent and so on and these qualities in turn improve an overall communication skill which adds on to the performance in the medical training.