The difference in emotional intelligence in relation to levels of maltreatment of Jordanian secondary school students

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between maltreatment (psychological and neglect) and emotional intelligence among 163 Jordanian students in seventh grade. Two measurements were applied: The Maltreatment and Neglect Scale and The BarOn Quotient Inventory scale. The study results revealed a statistically significant inverse relationship between emotional intelligence and maltreatment. Students subjected to high levels of maltreatment scored lower means in emotional intelligence, and students subjected to low levels of maltreatment scored higher means in emotional intelligence. The emotional intelligence domains included intrapersonal skills, interpersonal skills, stress management and adaptability. The results showed statistically significant differences for all domains except intrapersonal skills. Furthermore, the results revealed no statistically significant differences in emotional intelligence of those maltreated attributed to students’ gender. Finally, there were statistically significant differences in emotional intelligence which were attributed to the type of maltreatment in favour of neglect.

Keywords

• Emotional intelligence
• psychological maltreatment
• neglect
• secondary school students