A National Study of Emotional Intelligence Among Otolaryngology Residents and Fellows Using the TEIQue-Short Form

Little is known about emotional intelligence (EI) among otolaryngology trainees and its assessment during training. We aim to assess EI levels and identify demographic and training-related factors associated with higher EI.

Cross-sectional study.

Survey of otolaryngology trainees.

Residents and fellows completed a national single-response survey from the Governing Council of the Section for Residents and Fellows-in-Training (November 7 to December 31, 2018). The Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire-Short Form provided a global EI score and subscores for well-being, self-control, emotionality, and sociability. Associations between sociodemographic and training factors with higher scores were assessed.

The global EI score was high (5.2 ± 0.6). Fellows had higher global EI scores than residents (5.5 vs 5.23; P = .028). Fellows (6.33 vs 5.83; P = .024), trainees older than 35 years (6.17 vs 5.83; P = .021), and those in humanitarian efforts (P = .012) had higher well-being scores. Trainees older than 35 years had higher self-control scores (5.67 vs 5.17; P = .009). Fellows (5.88 vs 5.50; P = .002) and female trainees (5.62 vs 5.38; P = .001) had higher emotionality scores. Trainees with ≥4 publications had higher sociability scores (5.0 vs 4.83; P = .001).

Global EI scores were high in this national sample of otolaryngology trainees. Seniority, age, female gender, research experience, and humanitarian involvement were associated with higher scores in specific dimensions. Future studies should evaluate how training experiences or structured educational programs can enhance the development of EI.