| The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between the constructs of emotional-social intelligence and social problem solving since there appear to be unexplored relationships between the two. Both are correlated with coping (Bastian et al., 2005: Burns & D'Zurilla, 1999; Heppner & Lee, 2002; Salovey et al., 2000), and both have supporting research that suggests they are associated with various human characteristics, e.g., physical health, psychological health, social interaction. Most importantly to this researcher is the idea that both constructs are positively correlated with both psychological and subjective well-being (Bar-On, 1988; Bastian, Burns, & Nettelbeck, 2005; Chang, D'Zurilla, & Sanna, 2004).;One hundred forty students (N=140) from Northern Arizona University participated in this study. Emotional-social intelligence was measured using the Emotional Quotient Inventory (EQ-i). Social problem solving was measured using the Social Problem Solving Inventory-Revised (SPSI-R). A bivariate correlation using a Pearson r statistical analysis was completed. This analysis explored relationships between the various scores of each instrument. Thirty-six comparisons were explored. Thirty-two of the 36 comparisons were found to be statistically correlated. This supports the belief that these two constructs are related.;It is believed that both emotional-social intelligence and social problem solving can be enhanced (they are teachable and learnable) in order to improve performance (Bar-On, 2004; D'Zurilla, 1986; D'Zurilla, 1990). This has a variety of implications for schools, the workplace, and mental health treatment.;Because they are related, the enhancement of one construct may also mean the enhancement of the other. In the field of counseling, enhancement of emotional awareness and problem solving ability can be very beneficial. Based on the findings of this study, it is possible that a training program created to enhance just one of these constructs could be used to enhance both. Although future research is needed to confirm that the enhancement of one can lead to the enhancement of the other, this study establishes a foundation for the future research. |
