The Relationship between Emotional Intelligence and Convicted Offenders

Abstract

Emotional intelligence (EI) has emerged as a significant psychological construct in understanding behavioral outcomes, particularly in the field of criminal psychology. This study examines the relationship between emotional intelligence and convicted offenders using the Offender Screening Tool (OST). EI was measured through four central dimensions: intrapersonal awareness, interpersonal awareness, intrapersonal management, and interpersonal management. A total of 200 convicted offenders were assessed. Results demonstrated that offenders with low or below-average EI obtained significantly higher OST scores, indicating elevated levels of criminal risk factors, while those with average EI consistently scored lower. This suggests that higher emotional intelligence serves as a protective factor against criminal behavior.