Does Emotions Communication Ability Affect Psychological Well-Being? A Study with the Mayer–Salovey–Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test (MSCEIT) v2.0

Abstract

The main aim of the current study was to provide evidence regarding the relationship between emotions communication ability—in terms of emotional intelligence (EI)—and psychological well-being. Additionally, the study explored the moderating effect of sex on this relationship. Participants filled in the Mayer–Salovey–Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test, General Health Questionnaire, Psychological General Well-Being Index, and Depression Questionnaire. Results showed the moderating role of sex in the relationship between EI ability and psychological well-being. Furthermore, the associations between EI and psychological well-being measures were generally higher for men than for women, supporting the idea that sex needs to be taken into account when considering EI measures. The potential helpfulness of EI and emotions communications ability in promoting mental health is discussed.

Notes

¹ The adoption of the DQ measure was supported by the previous results of Curci and colleagues’ study (2013), which found a significant association between the DQ and the MSCEIT scores.