Relationship between Emotional Intelligence and Loneliness among Young Adults and Older Retired Population

Abstract

The aim of the study was to determine whether there is a significant relationship between Emotional Intelligence and Loneliness among young adults and older retired population. It was hypothesized that there would be a difference in feelings of loneliness in both populations. The sample size consisted of 80 participants in which 40 participants were young adults (18-25 years), selected from a private university, 40 participants were older retired (60+years), each set consisted 20 male and 20 female participants. Emotional Intelligence was tested through Schulte Self-Report Emotional Intelligence Test, while Loneliness was assessed using Revised UCLA Loneliness scale. The result showed a difference (p = 0.040) between the feelings of loneliness of young adults and older retired population, they indicate negative correlation (r = -0.348) between Emotional Intelligence and Loneliness, depicting that lower levels of Loneliness in individual with high Emotional Intelligence. The research carries implications for further intervention focusing on coping strategies to counter the negative effects of Loneliness and enhancement of Emotional Intelligence from a younger age.