Family dynamics vs. emotional intelligence: Determining factors in the risk of psychoactive substance use in secondary education

Abstract

The aim of this article was to determine the relationship between family dynamics and emotional intelligence (EI) as determining factors in the risk of psychoactive substance use (PSU) among secondary school pupils in public and private institutions in the municipality of Valledupar. It was considered that EI acts as a protective factor against substance use, whilst dysfunctional family dynamics and parental substance use increase the risk of addictive behaviours in students. The research followed a positivist paradigm, with a quantitative approach, correlational scope and a non-experimental cross-sectional design, using a sample of 244 students in Years 9 to 11. Vulnerability to substance use was measured using the CRAFFT screening test for substance use in adolescents, and emotional intelligence using the TMMS-24 questionnaire (Attention, Clarity and Repair/Regulation dimensions), employing non-parametric correlations Spearman’s Rho and Chi-square for the analysis. The data did not support the hypothesis of a significant negative relationship between EI and PAS use, although Repair/Regulation showed a negative trend (Rho = -0.109; p = 0.090). In contrast, significant associations were found between risk of substance use and belonging to single-parent families, as well as with the frequency of family substance use. It is concluded that the family environment is strongly associated with this, and the need to promote emotional skills is emphasised, given the high proportion of students with inadequate levels of emotional regulation.