The Predictive Role of Social Intelligence Dimensions on Critical Thinking Dispositions Among Nurses: A...

This study aimed to determine the predictive role of specific social intelligence dimensions on nurses' critical thinking dispositions in western Iran.

A cross-sectional descriptive correlational design.

This study was conducted among 442 nurses from eight teaching hospitals affiliated with Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, western Iran. Participants were selected via stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a demographic checklist, the 33-item Ricketts Critical Thinking Disposition Assessment, and the 21-item Tromsø Social Intelligence Scale. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation, multiple linear regression, and hierarchical regression analysis. Effect sizes (Cohen's d) were calculated where applicable. All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 26.

The findings revealed that overall critical thinking and social intelligence scores fell within the medium range; however, more than half of the participants demonstrated high-level critical thinking, with innovativeness scoring the highest among its subscales. The overall correlation between the two constructs was weak and non-significant, although intra-dimensional relationships within each construct were strong and positive. Regression analyses indicated that innovativeness and cognitive maturity significantly predicted social information processing, while social skills and social awareness were positively predicted by innovativeness and cognitive maturity, respectively. Social information processing emerged as a negative predictor of critical thinking, whereas social awareness positively predicted cognitive maturity. Notably, overall social intelligence was not explained by any critical thinking dimensions, and in hierarchical analysis, only social information processing remained an independent predictor of critical thinking.

The social intelligence, critical thinking relationship is dimension-specific, not global. Total social intelligence did not predict critical thinking; however, social information processing negatively predicted it, whereas innovativeness and cognitive maturity positively influenced social dimensions. These findings challenge using global scores, suggesting leadership should prioritise cognitive competencies and educational interventions target specific social-cognitive components.

Target cognitive competencies and specific social intelligence dimensions, not overall scores, to improve clinical reasoning and patient care.

Nurses from eight teaching hospitals affiliated with Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences voluntarily participated; no other public contribution was involved.