Emotional Intelligence and Its Relationship with Leadership Quality among Malaysian Gifted and Talented Students

Abstract

This study aims to identify the Emotional Intelligence (EQ) competency and its relationship with Leadership Qualities (LQ) among Gifted and Talented Students (GTS) in Malaysia. Quantitative approach was employed where 294 GTS from Pusat PERMATApintar® Negara answered two questionnaires. The findings show that GTS had a high EQ score (81.85) and average leadership qualities (77.86). GTS obtained the highest score in maturity domain (91.70). In regards to LQ, GTS obtained a high score in collegiality (84.80%). There is a strong positive correlation between EQ and LQ (r [294] = 0.775, p = 0.00 (p <0.01). Results from this research support the view that GTS has a potential for excellent leadership. The Guidance and Counselling Unit needs to be committed in providing intervention programs to enlighten the GTS on leadership responsibilities and accountability. Programs related to EQ and LQ development can be integrated across subjects and co-curricular activities. This will help strengthen the psychological well-being and leadership qualities among GTS.