Exploring The Effects Of Emotional Intelligence On Students’ Self-Esteem And Academic Achievement At University Level

Abstract

Human emotions are a fundamental aspect of who we are. Understanding one's own feelings as well as those of others is possible for individuals with strong emotional intelligence (EI), yet it is not highly valued in Pakistan. Therefore, the researcher investigated the effect of EI on student’s self-esteem and academic achievement at the University of Peshawar. The hypotheses tested were: there is no effect of students’ emotional intelligence on their self-esteem the University of Peshawar and there is no effect of students’ emotional intelligence on their CGPA a[1]t the University of Peshawar. The study employed a descriptive quantitative research design. Population comprised all undergraduate students at the University of Peshawar, totaling 10943. From this population, 370 students were selected using stratified random sampling technique. Two standardized data collection tools were used: The Schutte Self-Report Emotional Intelligence Test (SSEIT) to assess emotional intelligence, and State Self-esteem Scale to assess self-esteem of the sampled students. Linear regression analysis was applied. The regression analysis indicated a significant effect of students’ emotional intelligence on their self-esteem leading to the rejection of first hypothesis. Similarly, regression analysis revealed a significant effect of students’ emotional intelligence on their CGPA resulting in the rejection of the second hypothesis. The study recommends that universities focus on students’ EI to help them regulate their emotions. Universities may also encourage students to practice positive self-talk and make them aware of setting personal goals that are achievable and meaningful.