Use of Emotional Intelligence in Enhancing Socialization Patterns of Learners to Stabilize Their Psychological Well-Being
Othoo Duncan and Sheila Owuor
Department of Educational Psychology & Science, School of Education,
Rongo University, Kenya
https://orcid.org/0009-0000-6363-5466
https://orcid.org/0009-0002-1296-9786
Email: duncanothoo@gmail.com
Abstract: Emotional Intelligence (EI) plays a significant role in shaping students’ psychological well-being, particularly in secondary schools, where learners encounter academic pressure, social challenges, and emotional fluctuations. Psychological Well-Being (PWB) represents the overall mental and emotional status that encompasses one’s capacity to manage stress, address problems, and attain personal and academic objectives. This study aimed to evaluate the application of Emotional Intelligence in learners’ socialization patterns and its effect on enhancing PWB among secondary school students in Rachuonyo North Sub-County, Kenya. The research employed a cross-sectional survey design utilizing a mixed methods approach. The target population comprised 12,370 secondary school students from Rachuonyo North Sub-County, 115 teacher counselors, and 56 principals from 56 public secondary schools, totaling 12,541 individuals. The sample consisted of 387 students, 35 teacher counselors, and 17 principals from seventeen selected secondary schools, yielding 439 respondents. Quantitative data were analyzed using percentages, means, standard deviations, and inferential statistics including Pearson Correlations and regression analysis. The researcher obtained clearance from the National Commission for Science, Technology, and Innovation (NACOSTI), along with authorization from the County Director of Education and the principals of the selected schools. Study findings were presented through frequency tables. The results demonstrated a strong positive correlation between Emotional Intelligence and socialization patterns of learners in enhancing psychological well-being (r=.687, p=.000˂.05). It was recommended that secondary school educators establish opportunities to foster students’ socialization, as this would substantially benefit their psychological well-being.
