Importance of socio-emotional skills in academic performance

Abstract

Socio-emotional skills play a vital role in students' overall development and academic performance, as they include skills such as emotional intelligence, self-regulation, empathy, and resilience, which are essential for coping with academic and personal challenges. This literature review analyzes recent studies (2019-2023) that explore the relationship between these skills and academic performance at different educational levels, showing that students with greater socio-emotional development show better motivation, concentration, and stress management, which promotes learning and academic success. In addition, various educational strategies have been implemented to strengthen these skills, such as emotional education and psychological intervention programs at school, which have been shown to reduce anxiety, improve coexistence, and encourage participation in the classroom. However, their implementation faces challenges such as the lack of teacher training in socio-emotional education and the scarcity of public policies that support its inclusion in curricula. The literature reviewed suggests that the development of these skills influences not only academic performance, but also the general well-being of students, promoting their social and emotional adaptation. It is concluded that education should prioritize socio-emotional training as a key element to improve academic and personal success, recommending the adoption of comprehensive strategies that involve teachers, students and families to ensure a more equitable and effective education.