Influence of Socio-demographic Factors on Spiritual Intelligence among College Students

This study examined differences in the spiritual intelligence of college going students particularly youths between the age group of 19 to 24 (considered as a stage of early adult hood by World Health Organization) with respect to the socio demographic factors particularly related to gender, age and socioeconomic status as it is directly related to their emotional, social and cognitive aspects of personal wellbeing. Using a quantitative descriptive design, data were collected from a stratified random sample of 332 students of colleges across three assembly constituency of Bhubaneswar. Spiritual Intelligence Self-Report Inventory (SISRI-24), developed by King &DeCicco, a standardized 24-item scale measuring four dimensions of spiritual intelligence, was administered along with a Background Information Form. Data was analysed using independent sample t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and Scheffe’s post-hoc tests. Results showed significant differences related to age and gender. Socio economic status also exerted a significant influence, with middle-income group outperforming low and higher-income group. These findings indicate that spiritual intelligence is influenced by various demographic factors. The study also highlights the need for emotional, social and cognitive development initiatives that promote reflective and spiritually grounded practices, particularly for younger students who are from low-income groups.