Emotional Intelligence and Academic Performance of Iranian Senior Dental Students

Background and Aim: Researchers believe that emotional intelligence (EI) is a better predictor of a person’s success in life than intelligent quotient. The aim of the present study was to determine the relationship between the EI and academic performance of senior dental students. Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study evaluated all senior dental students (n=131) of Tehran University of Medical Sciences by census sampling. The Bar-On Emotional Quotient Inventory (EQI) was used to evaluate the EI. The score of the comprehensive basic science exam (CBSE), grade point average (GPA), point average of the tenth semester (PA-10), and point average of practical subjects of the tenth semester (PA-10P) were used to assess the students’ academic status. Demographic characteristics of the students and their participation in life skill courses were recorded. In order to determine the relationship between the variables and subscales of EI, a backward linear regression model was adopted. The significance level was set at 0.05. Results: The response rate was 80% (n=106, 69 females). A direct relationship was observed between the total EI score and PA-10P (P=0.019), while there was an inverse significant relationship between the total EI score and GPA (P=0.007). The total EI score had a significant relationship with participation in life skill courses (P=0.039). No relationship was observed between the total EI score and any of the demographic characteristics, CBSE score, or PA-10. Conclusion: It seems that students with higher EI perform better in practical dental courses.