Association between emotional intelligence and relationship outcomes among Hong Kong couples

Abstract

Objectives: This study examined the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI) and relationship outcomes among Hong Kong couples.

Methods: Participants were 32 heterosexual couples (18 were married and 14 were in a stable heterosexual romantic relationship) with educational level of secondary school Form 7 or above. They were assessed of their actual EI (Mayer-Salovey-Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test; MSCEIT), self-perceived EI (Schutte Self-Report Inventory; SSRI), and relationship outcomes (Quality Relationship Inventory; QRI and Relationship Assessment Scale; RAS).

Results: Results showed that couples generally were not similar in their EI levels and relationship outcomes. Except for the males’ actual EI, a person’s EI was not predictive of his or her relationship quality. Males’ EI (both actual and self perceived) predicted their female partners’ conflict. Females’ relationship outcomes were more susceptible to the EI of their partners as compared to that of males’. Dyadic composition of EI among couples revealed interaction effects on the relationship quality, but only for females. Couples with both partner scoring low or high in EI yielded the lowest relationship satisfaction.

Discussion: The findings suggest that couples with both high EI may have a reduced positive illusion for each other thus, leading to lower relationship satisfaction.