Effects of cancer severity on the relationship between emotional intelligence, perceived social support, and psychological distress in Italian women

Purpose This study aims to understand the association between emotional intelligence, perceived social support, and psychological distress (i.e., anxiety, depression, stress) in women with cancer at different stages. Specifically, the aims of this study were to investigate: i) the links between emotional intelligence and psychological distress (i.e., symptoms of anxiety, stress and depression); ii) the mediating role of perceived social support provided by family members, friends, and significant others in the relationship between emotional intelligence and psychological distress; iii) the impact of cancer type and cancer stage (I-II vs III-IV) in moderating these relationships, among Italian women. Methods The research sample consisted of 206 Italian women ( mean age = 49.30 ± 10.98 years; 55% breast cancer patients) who were administered a questionnaire to assess emotional intelligence, perceived social support, and psychological distress. Structural equation model (SEM) analysis was carried out to confirm the hypothetical-theoretical model. Results Emotional intelligence had a positive association with perceived social support, which in turn prevented psychological distress only in women with early-stages cancers. The type of cancer has no effect on these relationships. Conclusions The findings of this study indicate a pressing need to screen and recognize women with lower emotional intelligence and perceived social support, as they may be more prone to experiencing psychological distress. For such individuals, our results recommend the implementation of psychological interventions aimed at enhancing emotional intelligence and fortifying their social support networks, with consideration for the stage of cancer they are facing.