The role of emotional intelligence on adolescents’ substance use. A moderated mediation model of deviant peer influence and assertiveness

Abstract

Introduction Adolescent substance use remains a critical public health concern globally, with its impact particularly pronounced in developing countries. It undermines the academic, social, and psychological well-being of otherwise productive youth. Among the various contributing factors, deviant peer pressure is one of the most prominent influences on substance use among university students. While considerable research has addressed the influence of peer pressure, limited attention has been given to the role of psychological factors such as emotional intelligence and assertiveness. This study aimed to examine the direct relationship between emotional intelligence and adolescent substance use, the mediating effect of deviant peer pressure in this relationship, and the moderating role of assertiveness within the mediation pathway.Methods Cross-sectional design was employed and data were collected from 455 university students (Mage = 20.61 ± 0.82), comprising 56% males and 44% females. structural equation modeling was used to analyze the mediation and moderation effects of the study variables.Results Structural equation modeling revealed that deviant peer pressure partially mediated the relationship between emotional intelligence and substance use. Additionally, assertiveness significantly moderated the effect of deviant peer pressure on substance use.Conclusion The findings of the study highlight the critical role of emotional intelligence and assertiveness in mitigating the influence of deviant peer pressure and reducing the likelihood of substance use among adolescents.