Is the emotional intelligence an indicator of academic achievement in students in Medical Sciences?

Abstract

Introduction: Emotional intelligence (EI) is one of the most important issues in many aspects, especially in educational area. Its relationship with academic achievement depends on culture and may reflect in various educational topics in different forms. This study investigates the relationship between EI and academic achievement of students of Semnan University of Medical Sciences (Iran). Materials and Methods: In this cross sectional study, 607 students of Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Iran were participated. The research instrument included two parts, demographics and 90 questions Bar-On EI questionnaire. The Grade-Point Average (GPA) of previous semester was considered as indicator of participant’s academic achievement. Results: A positive significant relationship was observed between EI and academic achievement (r=0.122, P=0.003). There was a positive significant relationship between academic achievement and all EI components, except empathy, social responsibility, interpersonal relationship (p