Trait Emotional Intelligence and Romantic Relationship Satisfaction: A Meta-Analysis

Abstract

This meta-analysis of six studies involving a total of 603 participants found a significant association (r = .32) between trait emotional intelligence and romantic relationship satisfaction. The association between the emotional intelligence of an individual and his or her self-reported romantic relationship satisfaction was significant, as was the relationship between an individual's emotional intelligence and the partner's level of satisfaction with the relationship. The association between trait emotional intelligence and romantic relationship satisfaction provides a foundation for future research, such as intervention studies aimed at increasing emotional intelligence in couples in order to increase romantic relationship satisfaction.