Research papers
← vista completaPublished on December 21, 2013 | http://doi.org/10.5867/medwave.2013.11.5867
Emotional intelligence and coronary atherosclerosis: exploratory study using the Trait Meta-Mood Scale
Inteligencia emocional y lesión aterosclerótica coronaria: estudio exploratorio en base a la aplicación del test Trait Meta-Mood Scale
Abstract
Introduction
There are no prior studies that assess emotional intelligence in asymptomatic adults with coronary atherosclerosis.
Aim
The purpose of this study is to explore associations between emotional intelligence in asymptomatic adults with and without coronary atherosclerotic lesions.
Design and method
Cross-sectional design. The sample consisted of 100 asymptomatic 30 to 80 year-old adults that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and who underwent coronary multislice computed tomography. Coronary atherosclerosis was shown by 64-channel multislice computed tomography. Emotional intelligence was assessed by applying the Trait Meta-Mood Scale.
Results
The sample was composed of 73% men and 27% women. Fifty-one percent had coronary atherosclerotic lesions, 78% had scores below the reference values for both Clarity and Repair. Seventy-nine percent had scores above the reference values for Attention. Statistically significant associations were found between the presence of coronary atherosclerotic lesion and: a) emotional attention, chi-square: 0.302, p=0.043, b) emotional clarity, chi-square: -0.312, p=0.040, b) emotional regulation, chi-square: -0.313, p=0.040.
Conclusions:
People with coronary atherosclerotic lesions showed an excessive tendency to focus on their own feelings and higher levels of rumination, together with lower ability to identify, distinguish and describe their emotions. Likewise, they have lower ability to reduce or eliminate negative emotions and to increase or maintain the intensity of positive emotions.
