The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Conflict Resolution in Personal Relationships of Young Adults

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI) and conflict resolution styles among young adults in the Delhi-NCR region. Utilizing the Wong and Law Emotional Intelligence Scale (WLEIS) and the Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument (TKI), Pearson’s correlation was applied to assess associations between EI and five conflict management styles. Unlike previous research suggesting a positive link between EI and collaborative or compromising styles, this study found no significant correlation between overall EI and any specific conflict resolution approach. However, a notable negative correlation was observed between the competing style and the other four styles, indicating that individuals favoring a dominant approach are less likely to use cooperative methods. These findings imply that EI alone may not reliably predict conflict resolution behavior and that its impact may vary based on cultural, interpersonal, and developmental contexts. The study highlights the need to explore individual EI components, consider mediating factors, and employ longitudinal or mixed-method designs in future research.