EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AND ACADEMIC STRESS AMONG SOLAPUR UNIVERSITY STUDENTS A PSYCHOLOGICAL ANALYSIS

Abstract

Emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in determining how individuals perceive, experience, and manage stress, particularly in demanding academic environments. University students often encounter significant academic stress due to factors such as examinations, academic workload, competition, and future career concerns. The present study aims to examine the relationship between emotional intelligence and academic stress among students of Solapur University. Using a descriptive and correlational research design, data were collected from a representative sample of undergraduate and postgraduate students drawn from selected colleges affiliated with Solapur University. Standardized scales were employed to measure emotional intelligence and academic stress. The data were analyzed using appropriate statistical techniques, including descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression analysis. The findings of the study indicate a significant negative relationship between emotional intelligence and academic stress, suggesting that students with higher levels of emotional intelligence experience lower levels of academic stress. Furthermore, emotional intelligence was found to be a significant predictor of academic stress, highlighting its role as a psychological resource in stress management. The study underscores the importance of incorporating emotional intelligence development programs and psychological counseling services within the university system to promote students’ mental well-being and academic adjustment. The findings contribute to the existing psychological literature by providing region-specific empirical evidence and offer practical implications for educators, counselors, and academic administrators.