Role of Trait Emotional Intelligence, Resilience and Coping in Health Related Quality of Life: A Comparison of In-Service Vs Retired Older Adults

Abstract

This study explores the relationship of trait emotional intelligence (trait EI), resilience, coping strategies, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among N =205 individuals. Purposive sampling was used to collect the data using self-report measures. The results indicated significant differences between working and retired employees in the use of coping mechanisms with working employees using more self-distraction, active coping, humor and self-blame. The adaptive coping mechanisms along with trait EI and resilience were positively correlated with HRQoL. Moreover, the regression analyses indicated that self-distraction and resilience predicted physical summary of HRQoL whereas trait EI predicted mental summary of HRQoL. The study has implications for the development of programs meant to strengthen these psychological components in order to raise older people' general well-being.