Introduction: Emotional intelligence is considered a protective and facilitating factor for physical and mental health. The aims of the present study are to define and compare an explanatory model of trait emotional intelligence, anxiety, stress and physical activity engagement, as well as to analyse existing relationships between the aforementioned variables as a function of gender. Method: The present study was descriptive and cross-sectional in nature, employing a sample of 2452 Spanish adolescents (age range = 13-16 years of age). A multi-group model of structural equations was developed which presented an excellent fit. Results: For both genders, a negative association was detected between emotional intelligence and anxiety levels. A direct positive association emerged between trait emotional intelligence and physical activity engagement, in addition to a positive association between anxiety and stress. In boys, a negative association existed between trait emotional intelligence and stress levels, as well as an indirect negative association between physical activity engagement and trait anxiety. In girls, an indirect negative association was observed between physical activity engagement and stress levels. Conclusions: Trait emotional intelligence is positively associated with physical activity engagement. Further, both variables are negatively associated with levels of anxiety and stress, with some differences emerging as a function of gender.

Keywords:
Emotional intelligence, anxiety, stress, physical activity, adolescents

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