CORRELATES OF SOCIAL INTELLIGENCE IN ALCOHOL CRAVING: A STUDY OF UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS IN ANAMBRA STATE

The study examined correlates of social intelligence in alcohol craving among undergraduate students in Anambra State. A sample of 321 students, consisting of 76 (23.7%) females and 245 (76.3%) males between the ages of 19 and 35 years (Mean = 25.41, SD = 5.78), was selected through a combination of cluster and simple random sampling techniques. Participants responded to standardized measures, including the Mini Alcohol Craving Experience, and Social Intelligence Scale. Utilizing a correlational research design, data were analyzed through Pearson Product Moment Correlation after verifying normality and linearity assumptions. The results showed significant negative relationship between social intelligence and alcohol craving (r = -0.664, p < 0.05). This outcome emphasizes the influence of psychosocial factor such as social intelligence on alcohol use behaviour. Based on the findings, the study recommends that universities implement interventionssuch as social skills workshops, group counselling, and peer mentorship programsthat enhance students' social and emotional competencies through curriculum integration or extracurricular activities, in order to nurture healthier interpersonal relationships and coping strategies that reduce the risk of alcohol dependence.