Emotional intelligence and neuroticism: implications for psychological well-being and individual experience

This study employed a mixed-methods design to address two aims. The quantitative component examined the association between neuroticism, EI and Psychological Well-Being (PWB) to determine whether EI demonstrated the potential to reduce or control the negative influence of neuroticism on PWB. It was hypothesised that 1. Neuroticism would be significantly negatively related to PWB, 2. EI would be significantly positively related to PWB and 3. EI would moderate the relationship between neuroticism and PWB. The qualitative component explored individuals’ experiences of PWB in relation to neuroticism and EI. 101 participants completed three questionnaires to measure EI, PWB and neuroticism. The data was analysed using a hierarchical multiple regression. Hypotheses 1 and 2 were supported, 3 was not. It was also found that EI significantly predicted PWB whereas neuroticism did not. A sample of 4 participants with opposing PWB completed a semi-structured interview composed around three PWB facets. Transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis. Three themes (including sub-themes) were developed. These described relational contexts, ‘openness’ and ‘change’. Aspects of EI and neuroticism were somewhat apparent within participants’ experience, the findings conflicting with yet also complementing the quantitative findings. The theoretical implications of this study are considered in light of these findings