EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AMONG PET OWNERS-A TWO-GROUP DISCRIMINANT ANALYSIS

Emotional Intelligence (EI) has gained considerable attention as an important aspect in personal and social functioning. This study explores the influence of pet ownership on Emotional Intelligence by employing a two-group discriminant analysis model. A sample of 300 adults from the Dindigul District in Tamil Nadu, comprising equal numbers of pet-owners and non-pet owners, was surveyed by means of the SamTha Emotional Intelligence Scale. The outcomes revealed significantly higher EI scores among pet owners compared to non-owners, suggesting a positive relationship between sustained pet companionship and emotional competencies. The discriminant function analysis identified duration of ownership, gender, and age as significant variables in distinguishing between the two groups. Duration of companionship alone contributed over 50% to the discriminant score. The model demonstrated high statistical significance and predictive accuracy, correctly classifying 85% of cases. These findings highlight the potential of emotional bonding in long-term companion relationships to foster Emotional Intelligence and support its inclusion in behavioural and well-being studies. Keywords: Emotional Intelligence, Discriminant Analysis, Pet Ownership, Socio-demographic Factors, Emotional Bonding, Well-being