Association between emotional intelligence and professionalism among dental hygiene students

Emotional intelligence (EI) includes the ability to evaluate and govern the emotions of oneself and others. Limited evidence exists in determining whether EI is related to professionalism.

The purpose of this study was to determine whether relationships exist between EI and professionalism among undergraduate dental hygiene students.

Using a quantitative cross-sectional survey research design, the study instrument consisted of 3 parts: (1) The Emotional Quotient Self-Assessment Checklist (EQSAC) included 30 questions measuring 6 domains of EI; (2) The Patient Management and Professionalism Scale (PMPS) included 10 questions measuring 5 domains of professionalism; and (3) Demographic questions. Descriptive statistics, correlational statistics, and multiple linear regression were used to analyze the data.

The responses from 49 participants were used, which represented a response rate of 80.3%. Most undergraduate dental hygiene student participants had EI and professionalism scores in the moderate range. Total EI scores were significant predictors of total professionalism scores (P < 0.001) and EI domain scores were found to be significant predictors of professionalism domain scores (P < 0.01).

Since EI was found to be a predictor of professionalism, improving EI levels may bolster the development of professionalism among undergraduate dental hygiene students. Further research should utilize a larger population of dental hygiene students across multiple institutions.