Comparative Analysis: Spiritual Intelligence Dimensions across Marital Status with Personality Covariates

Abstract

Research demonstrates that Marital Status links with Spiritual Intelligence development, yet whether these associations reflect fundamental SI differences or confounding Personality effects remains unclear (Erikson, 1980; Singh & Pandey, 2023). This study examined Spiritual Intelligence dimensions across Marital Status groups with statistical control for Personality Traits (Neuroticism and Extraversion) that might explain observed differences. A sample of 363 participants (228 unmarried, 135 married) completed measures of SI domains (Consciousness, Grace, Meaning, Transcendence, Truth) and Personality Traits. Unadjusted t-tests and ANCOVA controlling for Neuroticism and Extraversion compared SI across marital groups. Married individuals showed significantly higher SI-Total in unadjusted analyses (d = -0.555, p < .001) and all five SI domains showed significant differences favoring married participants (d range: -0.272 to -0.694). When controlling for Personality Traits via ANCOVA, Marital Status effects remained highly significant across all SI domains (all p < .001), with minimal effect size reduction. Married individuals exceeded unmarried counterparts by 2.55-4.51 points on SI domains even after accounting for personality. SI-Meaning showed the largest unadjusted effect (d = -0.694) and remained strongly differentiated after covariate control (B = 3.471, p < .001). The persistence of effects after personality control suggests that marriage itself fosters SI development through distinct relational and social mechanisms independent of personality influences. Intimate partnership may provide distinctive context for cultivating Consciousness through sustained attention, Grace through secure attachment, Meaning through commitment, Transcendence through expanded perspective, and Truth through relational challenges requiring equanimity (Emmons, 2005; Vaughan, 2002). Findings support Marriage as a context for spiritual development independent of personality selection effects.