Abstract

This study investigated the relationships between emotional intelligence, social media use, and mental health outcomes among students in the Faculty of Education, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu Alike Ikwo. A descriptive correlational design was adopted, and data were collected from 60 students using a self-report questionnaire. The instrument was validated by experts and had a good reliability coefficient (Cronbach alpha = 0.82). The results showed a significant positive relationship between emotional intelligence and mental health outcomes (r = 0.65, p < 0.01). Social media use was found to influence mental health outcomes (β = 0.42, p < 0.01), and emotional intelligence played a significant role in this relationship (β = 0.38, p < 0.01). The study also found significant differences in emotional intelligence and mental health outcomes between students with high and low social media use.

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