Relation between emotional intelligence, eating disorders and neuroticism.

• Grant number: 24/18091-7
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• Start date: August 01, 2025
• End date: July 31, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Humanities - Psychology - Fundamentals and Assessments in Psychology
• Principal Investigator: Fabiano Koich Miguel
• Grantee: Beatriz Ponce de Leon Campos Pimentel Ferreira de Carvalho
• Host Institution: Centro de Educação e Ciências Humanas (CECH). Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCAR). São Carlos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The present study aims to explore the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI), eating disorders (EDs), and neuroticism. EI, which includes emotional perception, emotional understanding, and emotional regulation, is essential for psychological well-being. Recent studies indicate that dysfunctions in emotional intelligence may be associated with EDs, suggesting that these disorders may be maladaptive emotional regulation strategies, as well as deficits regarding emotional perception and comprehension. Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder, are characterized by irregular eating behaviors and psychological disturbances that significantly affect an individual's quality of life and social functioning. Individuals with high levels of neuroticism, characterized by emotional instability, tend to show deficits in EI, with difficulties in emotional regulation and understanding, which can enhance the use of dysfunctional eating behaviors to cope with emotional stress. Neuroticism is also directly linked to a higher risk of developing EDs, as individuals with high levels of this trait often resort to maladaptive eating behaviors as a form of emotional control. Therefore, the research will use questionnaires and scales adapted and validated for the Brazilian population to assess emotional regulation, emotional understanding, emotional perception, maladaptive eating behaviors, and neuroticism. The study aims to contribute to the understanding of the interactions between EI, neuroticism and EDs, providing evidence that may assist in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of eating disorders.