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Predicting anxiety in carers of people with dementia: the role of trait emotional intelligence

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  21 March 2014

Jessica Weaving ,
Vasiliki Orgeta ,
Martin Orrell  and
K. V. Petrides
Jessica Weaving
Affiliation:
Division of Psychiatry, and Research Department of Clinical, Educational, and Health Psychology, University College London, UK
Vasiliki Orgeta*
Affiliation:
Division of Psychiatry, and Research Department of Clinical, Educational, and Health Psychology, University College London, UK
Martin Orrell
Affiliation:
Division of Psychiatry, and Research Department of Clinical, Educational, and Health Psychology, University College London, UK
K. V. Petrides
Affiliation:
Division of Psychiatry, and Research Department of Clinical, Educational, and Health Psychology, University College London, UK
*
Correspondence should be addressed to: Vasiliki Orgeta, Division of Psychiatry, University College London, 67-73 Riding House Street, 2nd Floor, Charles Bell House, London W1W 7EJ. Phone: +0044-020-7679-9294; Fax: +0044-020-7679-9426. Email: v.orgeta@ucl.ac.uk.
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Abstract

Background:

Trait emotional intelligence (trait EI) is a personality dimension related to affect that has been shown to predict psychopathology. The objective of the present study was to examine the predictive validity of trait EI in explaining anxiety symptoms in family carers of people with dementia.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey was conducted with a convenience sample of 203 dementia family caregivers. We used the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire – Short Form (TEIQue-SF) to measure trait EI in carers. The predictive validity of the scale in explaining anxiety was tested via regression analysis.

Results:

Bivariate correlational analysis indicated that lower levels of trait EI were related to higher perceived burden, higher anxiety and depression, and poorer self-rated health in carers. Multiple regression analyses indicated that trait EI was a significant predictor of anxiety symptoms after accounting for known factors influencing outcomes for caregivers. Trait EI also showed strong predictive validity in relation to psychosocial outcomes in carers.

Conclusions:

Trait EI plays an important role in predicting anxiety in dementia caregivers. Theoretical models and interventions aimed at carers of people with dementia should take into account aspects of personality.

Keywords

dementia caregiverstrait emotional self-efficacyburdenanxietydepressionpersonalityTEIQue
Type
Research Article
Information
International Psychogeriatrics , Volume 26 , Issue 7 , July 2014 , pp. 1201 - 1209
Copyright
Copyright © International Psychogeriatric Association 2014 

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