Efectos de un programa de inteligencia emocional en factores socioemocionales y síntomas psicosomáticos

This study pursued two objectives: (a) evaluating the effects of an intervention program to develop emotional intelligence; and (b) exploring whether the program had an impact, differentially by gender. The sample included 148 adolescents (13-16 years old). The study used a quasi-experimental repeated measurements pre-test-post-test design, with control groups. Four assessment tools were administered before and after the program, as well as in the follow-up. The tools administered assess the dependent variables under study: emotional intelligence, happiness, physical health, and personality traits. The analysis of pre-test-post-test covariance revealed that the program significantly stimulated an increase in the emotional intelligence in the experimental participants, thereby decreasing psychosomatic symptoms. Happiness increased, but the change was not statistically significant. The analysis of pre-test-follow-up covariance confirmed that the program significantly enhanced emotional intelligence and happiness, decreasing psychosomatic symptoms and emotional instability. In general, there were no significant changes as regards gender. The discussion focuses on the importance of implementing programs to promote social-emotional development during adolescence.