Impact of Emotional Intelligence Skills Training on Marital Adjustment Among Students of Mazandaran University

Abstract

Background: In terms of family psychological health, emotional intelligence (EQ) and marital adjustment are issues, which should not be overlooked. However, a few studies have been conducted to experiment and evaluate the impact of EQ skill-based training on couples’ marital adjustment. Objectives: The aim of this pilot study was to assess the effect of EQ components on marital adjustment among university students. Methods: The study utilized a quasi-experimental design with married couples (N = 60) from Mazandaran University aged 22 to 29 years old. The experimental group (30 married couples) participated in a training course on emotional intelligence skills and the other 30 couples did not do so. Measures of emotional intelligence and marital adjustment were completed by the participants. Pre and post training tests, Bar-On emotional intelligence test, and Har Mohan-Singh marital adjustment questionnaire were completed by both groups. The Paired t-test was used in order to evaluate the effectiveness of the training course. Results: Participants’ data showed that the training course had an impact on EQ as well as marital adjustment. Data analysis showed that conducting the training course had significant impact on the experimental group (P < 0.001). Analysis of the data approved that training had an impact on the students’ marital adjustment in the experimental group (P < 0.001). Conclusions: Considering the significant positive relationship between EQ and marital adjustment, the EQ competencies can be utilized as a fundamental and effective component in improving and reinforcing satisfactory marital relationships. Therefore, interpersonal relationship and marital relationship between each couple can be improved through an emotional intelligence skill–based training course.