A Comparative Study of Emotional Intelligence among Rural and Urban College Students

Abstract

Emotional intelligence has emerged as one of the most significant psychological competencies influencing students' academic achievement, interpersonal relationships, mental well-being, and overall personality development. It enables individuals to recognize, understand, regulate, and effectively manage their own emotions while responding appropriately to the emotions of others. During the college years, students encounter various academic, social, emotional, and career-related challenges that require strong emotional competencies. The present study aimed to compare the emotional intelligence of rural and urban college students. A descriptive survey method with a quantitative research design was adopted for the study. A sample of 100 college students, comprising 50 rural and 50 urban students, was selected using the simple random sampling technique. Data were collected through a standardized Emotional Intelligence Scale and analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean score, standard deviation, and independent sample t-test. The findings revealed that urban college students demonstrated comparatively higher emotional intelligence than rural college students. Significant differences were observed in self-awareness, emotional regulation, empathy, motivation, and social skills. The study emphasizes the importance of guidance and counselling services, life skills education, emotional learning programmes, and supportive educational environments in enhancing students' emotional intelligence. The findings provide useful implications for teachers, counsellors, educational institutions, and policymakers in promoting students' emotional well-being and holistic development.