Emotional Intelligence and Employment Impact on Psychological Well-being in HIV Community-Based Organizations

Strategic Insights -

A recent study from Aga Khan University Hospital in Pakistan sheds light on the effects of emotional intelligence and employment on the psychological well-being of key populations working in HIV community-based organizations. The research focused on men who have sex with men, trans women, and female sex workers, exploring how these factors influence their mental health. The study used a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data to identify predictors of psychological well-being.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study involved 188 CBO workers, with 128 (68.1%) identifying as men who have sex with men, 18 (9.6%) as female sex workers, and 42 (22.3%) as trans women.
  • Results from the multiple regression analysis showed that residence away from family (b = 2.85; p = 0.038), history of suicidal ideation (b = -3.74; p = 0.022), and emotional intelligence (b = 3.25; p = 0.014) were significant predictors of psychological well-being.
  • The study found that CBO workers with higher emotional intelligence reported better psychological well-being, while those with a history of suicidal ideation exhibited poorer well-being.
  • Ten in-depth qualitative interviews were conducted among CBO workers to supplement the quantitative findings.
  • The research highlights the importance of addressing the mental health needs of key populations working in CBOs.

Statistics:

  • 68.1% of CBO workers identified as men who have sex with men.
  • 9.6% of CBO workers identified as female sex workers.
  • 22.3% of CBO workers identified as trans women.
  • The study found a significant positive correlation between emotional intelligence and psychological well-being (b = 3.25; p = 0.014).
  • A mean score of 2.85 (p = 0.038) indicated that residence away from family was a significant predictor of psychological well-being.
  • A mean score of -3.74 (p = 0.022) indicated that history of suicidal ideation was a significant predictor of psychological well-being.

Sources:

  • The Effect of Emotional Intelligence and Employment on the Psychological Well-Being of HIV Key Population Workers. Jcpsp-journal of the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan, 2025;35(10):1294-1300.
  • NewsRx. New Findings from Aga Khan University Hospital in the Area of HIV/AIDS Reported (The Effect of Emotional Intelligence and Employment on the Psychological Well-Being of HIV Key Population Workers). AIDS Weekly. October 20, 2025; p 93.