The mediating role of motivation in the relationship between emotional intelligence and life satisfaction: an empirical study on teachers

TL;DR

This study explores how emotional intelligence affects teachers' life satisfaction, with motivation acting as a mediator in Turkey.

Contribution

The novelty lies in demonstrating that motivation mediates the relationship between emotional intelligence and life satisfaction among teachers.

Findings

Emotional intelligence positively affects life satisfaction and motivation.

Motivation mediates the relationship between emotional intelligence and life satisfaction.

The findings highlight psychological well-being factors for teachers in Turkey.

Abstract

This study investigates the intricate relationship between emotional intelligence (EI), life satisfaction (LS), and the mediating role of motivation (M) within the context of Turkish teachers. Building upon extensive research on the interplay among these constructs, it is explored how EI, as a predictor, influences LS among educators, and whether M serves as a significant mediator in this relationship. The research draws upon a sample of teachers in Türkiye and employs structural equation modeling (SEM) to analyze the complex dynamics among these variables. According to the research results, EI positively affects LS and M, and at the same time, M plays a mediating role in the relationship between EI and LS. The findings of this study contribute to the understanding of the psychological well-being of teachers and may inform interventions aimed at enhancing their life satisfaction and motivation in the challenging educational landscape of Türkiye.

Figures