Emotional Intelligence Program for Adolescents With Antisocial Behavior (DYNAMIS)

Overview

This study assessed the effectiveness of an emotional intelligence program based on the Salovey and Mayer model among adolescents exhibiting antisocial behavior. A quasi-experimental design was employed, involving 231 Colombian adolescent offenders (122 in the experimental group). A 12-session psychological protocol was implemented. The primary question it aims to address is whether it is feasible for adolescents with antisocial behavior to reduce negative emotional symptoms related to mental health, such as anxiety, stress, and depression, while simultaneously improving their emotional skills. It was observed that those who completed the program showed significant improvements in emotional intelligence, emotional balance, and resilience while experiencing a decrease in emotional symptoms, particularly in stress.

Emotional intelligence programs have been shown to enhance mental health, social adjustment, and overall well-being in adolescents, primarily implemented in educational settings but adaptable to specific clinical populations. The goal of this study was to assess the effectiveness of an emotional intelligence program tailored for adolescents with antisocial behavior based on the Salovey and Mayer ability model. Given previous findings suggesting that emotional intelligence programs can aid in improving mental health and social adjustment in adolescents, there arises a need to evaluate the efficacy of such programs in correctional settings. This study aimed to ascertain the effectiveness of an emotional intelligence program designed for adolescents with antisocial behavior. It also supported the notion that implementing emotional intelligence programs in socio-educational centers working with such adolescents could be an effective strategy to enhance their psychological and social well-being. Additionally, it highlights the necessity of incorporating emotional intelligence training in intervention processes within correctional contexts. The study employed a quasi-experimental design with both intervention and control groups, conducting pre-post intervention measures. The study involved 231 Colombian adolescent participants aged between 14 and 18 (Mean = 15.55, SD = 1.30), with 122 in the intervention group (Mean = 15.64, SD = 1.29, 19.7% female) and 109 in the control group (Mean = 15.44, SD = 1.30, 27.5% female). Questionnaires were utilized to evaluate emotional intelligence, emotional experiences, resilience, emotional symptoms (depression, anxiety, and stress), and life satisfaction. The comparative analyses revealed significant differences between the intervention and control groups. Adolescents who completed the program demonstrated improvements in emotional intelligence, emotional balance, and resilience while experiencing a notable reduction in emotional symptoms, particularly stress.