Relationships Between Emotional Intelligence And Vocational Orientation In Preadolescence: Gender Differences

Abstract

The aim of this study was to explore the relationships between emotional intelligence (EI) and vocational orientation in preadolescence and gender differences within these relationships. In this study participated 116 eight grade students from urban area (46.6% female). The data referring to vocational interests were collected using Vocational Interests Inventory based on Holland's hexagon model, and completed options for the preferred future studies and profession. Based on individual scores in vocational interests, indicators of vocational choice (consistence, differentiation and congruence) were computed. Emotional Intelligence Test for children, adapted from Bar-On and Goleman was administered to measure the emotional development. Positive correlation was found between EI and differentiation of interests. Gender differences were revealed: girls obtained higher scores in EI, in social and artistic interests, and in differentiation of vocational profile, while boys had higher scores in realistic interests. Results indicated significant effect of interaction between gender and EI on congruence: girls with a medium and high level of EI expressed more congruent professional choices than boys in the same condition, but boys with low-level of EI, expressed more congruent professional choices than girls in the same condition. Despite of small number of respondents participating in this study, the results endorse the necessity of EI, the importance of more permissive socialisation encouraging boys and girls to shape their vocational interests based on their aptitudes, and the importance of vocational counselling services providing students professional help to make more congruent vocational choices.