Our novel findings must be understood in the context of limitations
First
the cross-sectional nature of the present study suggests that caution is warranted when making any strong causal inferences
Although previous research has shown that EI abilities precede changes in affect and life satisfaction
and affectivity has a causal influence on life satisfaction judgments
are needed to understand better the interrelationships between ability EI
affectivity and life satisfaction
Second
since our sample was a fairly homogeneous group
composed of undergraduates
mostly of women and young adults
results may not be generalized for other sample groups
Moreover
additional research could also focus more extensively on which specific emotional abilities are more important in influencing affectivity and life satisfaction judgments