Evaluation of emotional intelligence training efficiency aimed at improving the quality of life, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression among the elderly in Tehran nursing home

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of clinical psychology , Medical School, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

2 Behbahan University of Medical Sciences, Behbahan, Iran

3 MA. in general psychology, Payam-e-Noor University of Tehran

4 Associate professor, Iran University of Medical Sciences

Abstract

Introduction: Emotional intelligence as an emerging concept is something that refers to status and role of feelings and emotions and dealing with them in human. It is known as a variable associated with quality of life, anxiety and depression. The purpose of present study is evaluation of emotional intelligence training efficiency on improving the quality of life, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression among residents of private nursing homes in Tehran.
Materials and Methods: This clinical study was conducted on 24 elderly persons of private nursing homes and convenience sampling method was used to sampling. The Beck Depression and anxiety Inventories and SF-36 questionnaire were selected as research tools. In this study, the experimental group were trained in emotional intelligence, while the control group did not received any training. The results were analyzed by SPSS.
Results:Emotional intelligence training has a positive and significant impact on improving the quality of life, mental symptoms and reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression among the elderly in nursing home.
 Conclusion: The results indicate that emotional intelligence as an important and moderating variable can make a decisive impact on improving the quality of life, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression in the elderly.

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