Emotional intelligence: a qualitative study of student nurses’ and midwives’ theoretical and clinical experience

Abstract

Background: Emotional intelligence defined as the ability to recognise and respond appropriately to emotions in oneself and others is valued within nursing and midwifery professions.

Objective: To explore nursing and midwifery students’ understanding and experiences of emotional intelligence in their undergraduate program.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with undergraduate nursing and midwifery students. Data were recorded, transcribed and underwent thematic analysis.

Findings: Three themes emerged from the interviews with seven participants: Emotional intelligence and undergraduate studies, Emotionally needed to be invested; Emotional intelligence and the clinical environment, I don’t want to like harden up; and Emotional intelligence and patient care, I just felt helpless.

Conclusion: The impact of emotions and subsequent behaviours on students’ theoretical learning and clinical practice was significant. Students’ often felt ill-prepared to portray emotional intelligence, particularly within the clinical environment.

Impact statement: This study provided valuable insights into nursing and midwifery students’ understanding and experiences of emotional intelligence.

Keywords:

• emotional intelligence
• nursing and midwifery
• undergraduate
• education

ORCID

Dolores Dooley http://orcid.org/0000-0003-4183-2375

Leah East http://orcid.org/0000-0002-4757-2706

Cate Nagle http://orcid.org/0000-0002-5661-6379