Emotional intelligence and underemployment in the youth labour market

The main objective of this study is to identify the emotional intelligence subscales that differ between underemployed, employed and not-working individuals in the youth labour market. The research is based on a work continuity framework (employment-underemployment-unemployment). 103 Spanish students ranged between 18 to 24 years old were tested using the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire (TEIQue). One-way ANOVA showed significant differences among all groups on: emotional expression, assertiveness, stress management and social skills (p < 0.05). Implications of these results for the work continuity framework will be discussed as well as some relevant suggestions for future research.