Abstract

The success of a marriage is largely dependent on the satisfaction that a couple derives from their marriage. It is an important indicator of relationship quality and overall well-being within a marriage, and psychological factors such as emotional intelligence and happiness may play a significant role in establishing this well-being. This study examined the relationship between emotional intelligence, happiness, and marital satisfaction among married individuals, while exploring whether happiness contributes to marital satisfaction beyond emotional intelligence. The sample consisted of 206 married individuals (103 couples). The tools used for data collection were emotional intelligence scale by Singh and Narayan, oxford happiness questionnaire, and Spanier’s dyadic adjustment scale for marital satisfaction. Correlation and hierarchical regression analysis was used to test the predictive role of emotional intelligence and happiness in marital satisfaction. The results indicated that emotional intelligence was positively and significantly associated with marital satisfaction. Happiness, when included in the regression model, also worked as a significant predictor and contributed to the explanation of marital satisfaction beyond emotional intelligence. These findings suggest that both emotional intelligence and happiness play an important role in marital satisfaction. The study highlights the importance of considering both emotional intelligence and happiness in understanding marital relationships and may have implications for relationship counselling aimed at enhancing marital satisfaction.