The impact of emotional intelligence on coping strategies for psychological trauma

Abstract

The aim is to determine the impact of emotional intelligence on coping strategies for psychological trauma. Methods: The research was conducted using survey and testing based on diagnostic methods: Primary Care PTSD Screen, WCQ, EQ-test. Statistical methods were used: ANOVA, descriptive statistics, regression analysis. Two hundred seventy internally displaced persons (IDPs) aged 23 to 48 participated in the study. The study found that subjects with PTSD signs have low emotional intelligence (M=32.31±14.88) and confrontation (M=12.68±4.08), distancing (M=12.74±4.62), avoidance (M=13.85±4.97) coping strategies. Regression analysis established that a low level of emotional intelligence promotes confrontation (β=-1.926±0.296) and distancing (β=-1.198±0.386) coping, and a high level of emotional intelligence develops a problem-solving strategy (β=1.277±0.298). The results make it possible to expand the range of providing psychological assistance in overcoming psychological trauma through the formation of emotional intelligence. This will ensure the assimilation of constructive coping as elements of conscious overcoming of life's difficulties. Increasing the level of emotional intelligence and adaptive behavior strategies will help reduce feelings of stress due to trauma. The obtained results open opportunities to study the impact of emotional intelligence on individuals who experienced traumatic events. Studying external and internal factors contributes to emotional intelligence development. Identifying individual and socio-cultural aspects of coping strategies enhances psychological support methods. Understanding emotional intelligence's influence helps design programs to develop it and overcome psychological trauma, including telepsychology.