Trait Emotional Intelligence and University Graduation Outcomes

• DOI: 10.1177/0734282912449446
• Publication Date: 2012-08-13T09:08:15Z
• Authors: Kateryna V. Keefer; James D.A. Parker; Laura M. Wood
• Keywords: Graduation (instrument); Trait

This study explored the utility of trait emotional intelligence (EI) for predicting students’ university graduation outcomes six years after enrolment in university. At start program, 1,015 newly registered students completed a brief multidimensional self-report EI assessment and provided consent to track their subsequent degree progress via official records. Using latent profile analysis (LPA), participants were sorted into five classes that differed overall level relative strengths weaknesses on individual dimensions. Greater likelihood noncompletion at 6-year follow-up was uniquely associated with having low-EI particularly pronounced interpersonal stress management domains, controlling high school grades gender. Comparative levels predictive could not be achieved by examining scores each dimension independently. Authors discuss practical advantages LPA over traditional variable-centered approaches identifying assisting risk noncompletion.