Abstract:
In this study the relationship between emotional intelligence, sense of coherence and coping behaviour was investigated. An availability sample of 101 participants completed the Emotional Intelligence Scale (Schutte et al, 1998), the Orientation to Life Scale (Antonovsky, 1987), the Coping Strategy Indicator (Amirkhan, 1990) and the COPE Questionnaire (Carver, Scheier and Weinteaub, 1989). The reliability and validity of the measuring instruments were acceptable for use in this particular group and the means and standard deviations calculated, compared well with those mentioned in literature for the same indices. By using regression analysis, it was found that emotional intelligence was better able, than sense of coherence, to predict the following coping strategies: turning to religion, suppression of competing activities, planning, active coping, and problem solving. Emotional intelligence arid sense of coherence were both good predictors of the coping strategy of positive reinterpretation and growth. It was concluded that individuals with a high emotional intelligence have developed more effective coping strategies than individuals who do not have well-developed emotional abilities. Practical implications of the findings are indicated.
