Constant Online Connectivity, Emotional Intelligence, and Stress Levels among Young Adults
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65339/ijsair.V2.I3.732Keywords:
Online Connectivity, Digital Stress, Emotional Quotient, Online Boundary Management, Psychological Well-Being, Stress LevelsAbstract
This study examined the relationship between constant online connectivity, stress levels, and emotional quotient among young adults in Laguna, Philippines, and determined whether emotional quotient moderated the relationship between online connectivity and stress. Anchored on the Interaction of Person-Affect-Cognition-Execution model, the study used a quantitative research design with correlation and moderation analysis. Data were gathered from 90 young adults aged 18 to 24 years old through convenience sampling. The Online Vigilance Scale, Perceived Stress Scale, and Wong and Lay Emotional Intelligence Scale were used to measure constant online connectivity, stress, and emotional quotient, respectively. Results showed that respondents had moderate levels of online connectivity, stress, and emotional quotient. Constant online connectivity was significantly and positively related to stress levels, indicating that higher online engagement was associated with higher stress. The overall model was significant, but emotional quotient did not significantly predict stress and did not moderate the relationship between online connectivity and stress. The findings suggest that continuous online availability, social media expectations, prolonged screen exposure, and pressure to remain responsive contribute to digital stress among young adults. The study concludes that excessive and unmanaged online engagement may negatively affect psychological well-being, while emotional quotient alone may not be sufficient to reduce digital-related stress. The study recommends healthier online habits, stronger boundaries between online and offline activities, and further research on coping factors such as social support, lifestyle behaviors, digital self-control, coping strategies, and online boundary management. The study aligns with SDG 3, SDG 4, and SDG 9 by addressing mental health, learner well-being, and sustainable digital engagement. Its sustainability impact lies in supporting public health, educational, institutional, and digital well-being initiatives for young adults.
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