International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) | Volume VI, Issue IV, April 2022 | ISSN 2454–6186

Relationship between Emotional Intelligence and Suicidal Tendencies, Among Undergraduates Students of University of Benin

Chukujindu Joyce Okafor Phd¹, Nwakaego Elizabeth Oyana^2
1Faculty of Arts and Education, Benson Idahosa University, Benin City
²Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Department of Nursing Science, University of Benin

Abstract: This study examined the interplay between emotional intelligence and suicidal tendencies among undergraduates of University of Benin. A non-experimental research design was employed, namely a correlational survey research design. Data were collected from a sample size of 396, utilizing the proportional sampling technique. The instrument used was a structured questionnaire, which comprised of two sections, section A was used for collecting demographic characteristics of the respondents and sections B and C was used for testing variables of interest which were tested. Reliability test was conducted by employing Cronbach’s alpha, which yielded a coefficient alpha value of 0.85. Findings showed that there was no significant relationship between emotional intelligence and suicidal tendencies among undergraduates @ r=0.014, p=0.785. The study also revealed no relationship between self-awareness and suicidal tendencies @ r= 0.003 but however revealed a weak direct relationship between self-regulation and suicidal tendencies @ r= 0.072, p= 0.154. The study therefore recommended, among others, that major stakeholders such as school administrators, lecturers and parents should keep in mind that the students are vulnerable to suicidal tendencies and as such should show more understanding towards students’ plight and be less judgmental.

Keywords: emotional intelligence, negative emotions, suicidal tendencies, self-awareness, self-regulation, university undergraduates

I. INTRODUCTION

Emotional intelligence is a psychological construct that was first conceptualized in the early 1964 by Michael Beldoch. It was seen as being similar to intelligence quotient. Over the years, two distinct forms of emotional intelligence have emerged, namely: termed trait emotional intelligence and mixed model emotional intelligence. Trait emotional intelligence handles how individuals see themselves emotionally and how they integrate the affective aspects of their personality. The mixed model handles both trait and ability theories. Emotional intelligence refers to parts of individual’s personalities and their abilities to motivate themselves in social and emotional situations