Page No 38-49
Nenchu Kath and Imlisongla Longkumer
Nagaland University, Kohima Campus, Meriema
Opioid remains the most lethal group of drugs. The present study aimed to assess
emotional intelligence, alexithymia, and psychological well-being among Opioid
dependents. Correlation among these variables was also explored. A comparative cross
sectional study was conducted with 64 opioid dependents and 64 healthy controls.
Participants were above 18 years of age. Participants were recruited using purposive
and convenience sampling methods. The instruments used in the study include the
Trait Emotional Intelligence (TEI) Questionnaire short form (TEIQue-SF 30 items), the
Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20 items), and Ryff’s Psychological Well-Being Scale
(42 items). t-test and Pearson correlation were performed. The finding revealed that
there was a significant difference between opioid dependents and healthy controls in
TEI and psychological well-being. The mean TAS score in the opioid dependence group
was higher than that in the healthy control group, however, this difference was not
statistically significant. TEI showed a statistically significant negative correlation with
both alexithymia and psychological well-being in both groups. Moreover, positive and
statistically significant associations were found between psychological well-being and
TEI within both groups. Future studies should explore the underlying mechanisms
connecting these constructs among individuals with opioid dependence. Understanding
these relationships is crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention
strategies