The effect of social intelligence on problem-solving skills: A research on politicians who officiate in Ankara

Social intelligence and problem solving skills became two indispensable and necessary skills for politicians. Rising prominence of communication in contemporary politics made social intelligence more important for politicians than before, as well as problem-solving skills gained importance due to increasing competence in politics. This study, with the aim of identification of relationship between social intelligence and problem solving skills, is carried out with politicians in Ankara. Among the methods used to identify the social intelligence level, Tromso Social Intelligence Scale was applied, and in addition problem solving inventory was used. Social intelligence and problem solving skills of the politicians in the sample was found to be high. However, it is revealed that social skills dimension of social intelligence differ according to educational level, while social awareness dimension differ according to age, tenure and educational level. According to the findings of the study, a positive, significant and medium level relationship is determined between social intelligence and problem solving skills of participants.