Impact of Emotional Intelligence on the Well-being of Teachers and Students

Teachers and students are the two most important entities of an educational ecosystem and their well-being is of paramount importance. Studies from across the world have reported a high prevalence of stress among teachers and students thus compromising their well-being. Any discussion on well-being can never be complete without a mention of emotional intelligence, a key skill in managing emotions, which in turn leads to well-being. This study attempts to understand the interplay between the emotional intelligence and well-being of teachers and students. The sample for the study included 100 teachers and 100 students from Government and private colleges in South India. Emotional Intelligence was measured using "DeepaKrishnaveni Emotional Intelligence Test", developed for adults in the Indian context. Well-being was assessed using the "General Well-being Scale", which measures the 6 facets of well-being. The study found a significant correlation between emotional intelligence and well-being among teachers and students. If the respondents were high in emotional intelligence, they reported a positive well-being. Thus this study has important implications for higher education institutions. Based on the outcomes, the study recommends Emotional Intelligence training as an effective intervention to enhance the well-being of Teachers and Students.