Emotional Intelligence and Life Satisfaction in Adulthood

The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Life Satisfaction (LS) (18 to 60 years) as a repertoire of acquired psychological competences and intelligent adaptive behavior through the promotion of personal success, happiness and general well-being and explore their contributions to LS. Three research hypotheses were formulated for young adulthood (18-39 years) and advanced adulthood (40-60 years), aiming at comparing the magnitude of these two life phases: (H1) EI and LS are positively related; (H2) EI and self-esteem are positively related; and, (H3) EI is a predictor of LS. The sample study is composed of 200 participants aged 18-60 years. The results did not indicate differences between EI in young and elderly adults, although the latter were significantly less satisfied with their life and reported going through a less favorable life period. The three hypotheses found statistical support, with greater magnitude in advanced adulthood. For young adults, EI accounted for 15% of their overall well-being and for older adults this proportion increased to 43%.