The Role of Reactive Coping on the Relationship Between Emotional Intelligence and Adolescent Psychological Adjustment

Background: This study examines the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI), coping, and two psychological adjustment indicators (Subjective Well-being/Perceived Stress) and the mediating role of coping on the relationship between EI and psychological adjustment. Method: 611 Spanish adolescents (14–18 years) were included in the study. Results: EI dimensions showed different patterns of association with coping and psychological adjustment. Emotional clarity and repair showed independent and positive associations with adaptive coping and negative with non-adaptive coping. They were also negatively related to Perceived Stress and positively to Subjective Well-being. Emotional attention was positively related to non-adaptive as well as to Socially supported coping. Likewise, it was positively associated with Perceived Stress and negatively with Subjective Well-being. Results of the indirect effects model highlighted two coping-related mechanisms through which the impact of EI on psychological adjustment is conveyed. Conclusions: Firstly, the pathway regarding a reduced use of maladaptive/dysfunctional coping strategies. Secondly, the search for Social support as an action mechanism of EI in adjustment. These data have meaningful implications, allowing the development of tailored programmes that tackle these mechanisms. Implementing preventive measures within adolescents' school environments to discourage Disengagement/Self-blame while promoting seeking Social support as a coping mechanism—particularly for those with heightened Emotional attention—can play a pivotal role in mitigating the rising prevalence of mental health disorders during adolescence.