Social support as mediator of perceived emotional intelligence and life satisfaction in a sample of teachers

The present study examined the role of social support as potential mediator between perceived emotional intelligence (PEI) and life satisfaction in a sample of 123 Spanish teachers, with ages ranging from 21-65 years. Data were collected using three self-report measures: Perceived Emotional Intelligence Scale, Social Support Questionnaire and Satisfaction with life Scale, together with demographic information. As expected, PEI scores showed positive associations with life satisfaction and with both quantitative and qualitative social support. Furthermore, the results of multiple path analyses testing for a mediation model indicated that PEI scores had a significant direct effect, though also indirect (via quantitative social support), on life satisfaction. The present study contributes to an emerging understanding of the underlying processes involved in how people with higher PEI show better psychological well-being. Finally, implications of the present findings for future research and potential intervention for increasing subjective well-being in teachers are discussed.