Abstract:
The main objective of this study was to examine the contribution of psychological distress,
emotional intelligence on academic achievement among Serbo Secondary high school
students in the case of Jimma Zone. Quantitative and qualitative research methods with
correlational design were employed to achieve the research objectives. About 300 total
participants from Serbo secondary students were selected using simple random sampling
technique via lottery method. Questionnaire and semi-structured interview tools of data
collection were used. Quantitative data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation,
Pearson correlation coefficient, and multiple linear regressions. Qualitative data was
analyzed via thematic analysis.The study used quantitative and qualitative approach with
correlational research design. The result showed that psychological distress and emotional
intelligence is not significant predictors of students’ academic achievement. Moreover, the
study revealed that there is a weak negative relationship between psychological distress,
emotional intelligence and academic achievement. Furthermore, the current study found there
is a significant gender differences in psychological distress, emotional intelligence and
academic achievement. Conclusively, life skill training as well professional advice is
essential to enhance and polish students’ academic achievement for better future
improvement.
