Trait Emotional Intelligence as a Protective Factor against Substance Use among Adolescents in Pakistan

This study examines the predictive association of trait emotional intelligence (TEI) with substance use among adolescents in Pakistan. A total of 400 adolescents ages between 12 years to 18 years (Mage=15.18, SD=1.18) were recruited in different school settings, in Karachi, Pakistan using a convenience sampling technique. Among them, 200 (50%) were males and 200 (50%) females. The Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire-Adolescent Short Form (TEIQue-ASF; Petrides & Furnham, 2006), and Drug Abuse Screening Test-10 (DAST‑10; Skinner, 1982) was used in Urdu language. Regression analyses revealed the significant predictive association of trait emotional intelligence (TEI) with substance use among adolescents. The TEI scores showed a strong negative predictive association with substance use (B = –0.065, p < .001, 95% CI for Exp (B) = [0.90, 0.94]). Further, all TEI facets emerged as significant negative predictors, including well-being (B = –0.052, p < .001), self-control (B = –0.031, p = .001), emotionality (B = –0.044, p < .001), and sociability (B = –0.026, p = .009). These findings indicate that higher emotional competence is consistently linked to reduced likelihood of substance use among adolescents. The study demonstrated that TEI and its core facets like well-being, self-control, emotionality, and sociability serve as buffer against the risk of substance use among adolescents. These findings highlight TEI as a protective factor that helps adolescents regulate emotions, cope with stress, and navigate social situations effectively, reducing the likelihood of engaging in substance use. The results underscore the potential value of evidence-based interventions and programs in promoting healthier social and emotional development and preventing substance use and other risky behaviours among adolescents.