Sub-dimensions of trait emotional intelligence and health: A critical and systematic review of the literature

Abstract

Despite a growing number of studies on the role of the multidimensional construct of trait emotional intelligence (EI) in health, most have focused on global EI, without examining the role of the sub-dimensions. The present systematic review aimed to highlight the current knowledge about self-reported health associated with trait-EI sub-dimensions in general and clinical populations. We searched for the articles including valid self-report scales of trait-EI and health (mental or physical or general) in general and clinical samples. Based on 42 studies, the majority of studies was based on mental health with cross-sectional designs and the TMMS scale, in the general population. Few studies have been focused on physical health and clinical population. The description of studies results revealed that trait-EI sub-dimensions are associated to a greater extent with better mental health, rather than with physical and general health. Furthermore, intrapersonal dimensions, and especially emotion regulation, have stronger effects on health than interpersonal dimensions. Finally, patients with a clinical disorder present lower trait-EI sub-dimensions than the general population. This review supports the importance of focusing on the sub-dimensions of trait-EI to understand better the role of EI in health. The use of scales exclusively based on emotional competences in health contexts is recommended. Developing interventions targeting emotional competences according to the emotional profiles and contexts of individuals could be beneficial to improve health and disease adjustment.