AN INVESTIGATION OF THE SOCIAL INTELLIGENCE LEVELS AND CONFLICT RESOLVING STYLES OF NURSING DEPARTMENT STUDENTS

Abstract

The current research aimed to determine the social intelligence levels and conflict resolution styles of nursing department students. The population of the cross-sectional study consisted of all nursing students studying at a foundation university. The whole population of nursery students was targeted without selecting a sample, and 95.2% of the students (n=178) participated in the research. “Socio-demographic Characteristics Form”, “Tromso Social Intelligence Scale” and “Conflict Resolution Styles Scale” were used to collect the research data. T-test, ANOVA and Pearson Correlation analysis were used in the analysis of the data. Students' Social Intelligence Scale total and sub-dimension scores were found to be high. Conflict resolution styles scale total and sub-dimension mean scores of compromise, domination and integration were found to be above the medium level, while the compliance and avoidance sub-dimensions mean score were determined to be high. A statistically significant difference was observed between the groups in the sub-dimensions of social awareness and domination according to gender. It was also noted that there was a positive, weak, statistically significant relationship between social intelligence and conflict resolution styles' compliance and avoidance sub-dimensions. Students' awareness of their own social intelligence levels should be increased. In addition, providing simulation scenarios and structured training that will improve conflict resolution skills will help students develop positive conflict resolution styles.