An Analytical Model / Emotional Intelligence Quotient and QOL in Mothers with Infants in Japan

OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between the emotional intelligence quotient and health-related quality of life using structural equation modeling. METHODS A self-administered questionnaire survey was conducted among 1,911 mothers who visited the Health Center for an infant medical examination. A hypothetical model was constructed using variables of the emotional intelligence quotient, social support, coping, parenting stress, and perceived health competence. RESULT There were a total of 1,104 valid responses (57.8%). Significant standardized estimates were obtained, confirming the goodness of fit issues with the model. The emotional intelligence quotient had a strong impact on physical and psychological quality of life, and showed the greatest association with coping. This study differed from previous studies in that, due to the inclusion of social support and explanatory variables in coping, an increase in coping strategies was more highly associated with emotional intelligence quotient levels than with social support. CONCLUSION An enhanced emotional intelligence quotient should be considered a primary objective to promote the health of mothers with infant children.