A Comprehensive Study of Emotional Intelligence among Higher Education Students in West Bengal

Abstract

This study explores the emotional intelligence (EI) of higher education students in West Bengal, highlighting its significance in their academic success and psychological well-being. Data was collected from 340 undergraduate students through a cross-sectional survey using the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire. The findings reveal notable differences in emotional intelligence among genders, fields of study, and current year of study. While male students showed higher levels of well-being and sociability, there were no significant gender differences in self-control and emotionality. Students in the science stream outperformed those in the arts stream in well-being, self-control, emotionality, and sociability, although the differences, except for well-being, were not statistically significant. Additionally, a One-way ANOVA indicated that current year of study was a significant factor, with first-year students displaying higher emotional intelligence than those in subsequent years. The study advocates for incorporating Emotional Intelligence (EI) into the curriculum to enhance both academic performance and well-being, aligning with global educational trends that emphasize the holistic development of students.