The Relationship between Emotional Intelligence and Personality Traits on Depression, Anxiety and Stress among Doctors

Abstract

Doctors in Pakistan work under high-pressure environments due to institutional barriers, long hours at work, and cultural attitudes toward mental health. These factors elevate levels of depression, anxiety, and stress (DAS) in medical professionals. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between emotional intelligence and personality traits, with depression, anxiety, and stress among practicing doctors in Pakistan, as well as to consider the role of demographic variables (age, gender, and years of practice) in influencing their psychological health. A cross-sectional quantitative design was employed with a sample of (N=200) practicing physicians from Rawalpindi and Islamabad, Pakistan. The results were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation, independent sample t-test and one way ANOVA. The study found statistically significant negative correlations between EI (in particular, wellbeing, self-control and emotionality) and DAS. Neuroticism had statistically significant positive correlations with DAS (depression r = 0.60; anxiety r = 0.58; stress r = 0.55); conscientiousness and extraversion served as protective factors. The result revealed that there is significant gender differences as female doctor scored higher on emotional intelligences (well-being, emotionality and sociability), while male doctors high score on self-control. In personality traits, female scores significantly higher in neuroticism, while male scored high in extraversion. Moreover, male doctors reported higher level of depression, anxiety and stress. Age related differences showed that older adulthood doctors have more emotional intelligence and conscientious, similarly, neuroticism, depression, anxiety and stress decreased in older adulthood doctors. Professional experience was linked with higher emotional intelligence, conscientious and agreeableness, and lower neuroticism, depression, anxiety and stress. In conclusion, the findings suggest that emotional intelligence and psychological well-being in physicians are positively associated with age and clinical experience.