Trait Emotional Intelligence and Attachment Dimensions as Predictors of Emoji-Exchange Frequency Among University Students

Author

Amira Syazwani Abdul Khalid, Shabina Rehman, Ahmad Faris Abdul Fatah, Rogeswari Ramakrishnan, Gurbir Dullet


Abstract

 This study examined the associations between trait emotional intelligence, attachment anxiety, attachment avoidance, and self-reported emoji-exchange frequency among tertiary-level students at a private university in Selangor, Malaysia. A quantitative, cross-sectional correlational survey design was employed. Data were collected from 375 students aged 18–30 years using the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire–Short Form, the Experiences in Close Relationships–Short Form, and an adapted eight-item emoji-exchange frequency questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential analyses were conducted, including an independent-samples t-test, Pearson product–moment correlations, and simultaneous multiple regression. Students with lower trait emotional intelligence reported more frequent emoji exchange than students with higher trait emotional intelligence. Attachment anxiety and attachment avoidance were positively associated with emoji-exchange frequency. When the predictors were examined simultaneously, trait emotional intelligence and attachment anxiety made significant unique contributions to emoji-exchange frequency, whereas attachment avoidance did not. Overall, the findings indicate that emotional and relational characteristics are associated with students’ digital communication behaviour. However, the cross-sectional design and reliance on self-report measures prevent causal conclusions. The study contributes to understanding how psychological characteristics may be reflected in emoji use among university students in the Malaysian context.



Keywords

Trait emotional intelligence; attachment anxiety; attachment avoidance; emoji-exchange frequency; SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being



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References


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