Relationship between emotional intelligence and professionalism among second-year dental students

Area of Science:

• Dental Education
• Psychology
• Professionalism Studies

Background:

• Emotional intelligence (EI) involves managing personal emotions and responding to others' emotions.
• Limited research explores the link between EI and professionalism.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between EI and professionalism in second-year dental students.

Main Methods:

• Quantitative, cross-sectional design.
• Used the Emotional Quotient Self-Assessment Checklist (EQSAC) for EI.
• Employed the Patient Management and Professionalism Scale (PMPS) for professionalism.

Main Results:

• High response rate (99.2%) from 117 dental students.
• EI domains were significant predictors of professionalism.
• Gender differences observed in specific EI and personality domains.

Conclusions:

• EI is a key factor in dental student professionalism.
• Interventions to boost EI could foster professionalism in dental education.