Emotional intelligence and life satisfaction in adulthood

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Life Satisfaction (LS) (18 to 60 years) as a repertoire of acquired psychological competences and intelligent adaptive behavior through the promotion of personal success, happiness and general well-being and explore their contributions to LS. Three research hypotheses were formulated for young adulthood (18–39 years) and advanced adulthood (40–60 years), aiming at comparing the magnitude of these two life phases: (H1) EI and LS are positively related; (H2) EI and self-esteem are positively related; and, (H3) EI is a predictor of LS. The sample study is composed of 200 participants aged 18–60 years. The results did not indicate differences between EI in young and elderly adults, although the latter were significantly less satisfied with their life and reported going through a less favorable life period. The three hypotheses found statistical support, with greater magnitude in advanced adulthood. For young adults, EI accounted for 15% of their overall well-being and for older adults this proportion increased to 43%.