Relationship between Psychological and Academic Entitlements and Maladaptive Outcomes of Undergraduates: The Mediating Role of Emotional Intelligence

Few studies have examined the mechanisms linking psychological (PE) and academic entitlement (AE) to mental health. This study investigated 294 non-Western undergraduates to analyze the relationships among PE, AE, and psychological health, and their potential mechanisms. Students with higher AE reported greater anxiety and depression, and lower emotional intelligence (EI). In contrast, those with higher PE showed greater anxiety but also higher levels of EI. EI also acted as a significant mediating factor in the relationships between AE and anxiety and depression, as well as between PE and anxiety. These findings highlight the distinct roles of PE and AE in mental health. Results highlight EI's buffering role against entitlement-related maladaptive outcomes.