The Science of Human Emotional Intelligence

From Canonica AI

Introduction

Human Emotional Intelligence (EI) is a subset of social intelligence that involves the ability to monitor one's own and others' feelings and emotions, to discriminate among them and to use this information to guide one's thinking and actions. The concept of EI has roots in discussions that date back to Charles Darwin's early work on the importance of emotional expression for survival and adaptation.[1]

A detailed, close-up image of a human brain.
A detailed, close-up image of a human brain.

History of Emotional Intelligence

The term "Emotional Intelligence" was first introduced by psychologists Peter Salovey and John D. Mayer in 1990. They defined EI as "the ability to monitor one's own and others' feelings and emotions, to discriminate among them and to use this information to guide one's thinking and actions."[2] This definition was later expanded by psychologist and author Daniel Goleman, who helped popularize the concept.

Models of Emotional Intelligence

There are three main models of EI: the ability model, the mixed model, and the trait model. Each model views emotional intelligence from a different perspective and describes different mechanisms or combinations of abilities.

Three distinct models, each representing a different approach to understanding emotional intelligence.
Three distinct models, each representing a different approach to understanding emotional intelligence.

Ability Model

The ability model, developed by Salovey and Mayer, views emotions as useful sources of information that help one to make sense of and navigate the social environment.[3] This model proposes four types of abilities: perceiving emotions, using emotions, understanding emotions, and managing emotions.

Mixed Model

The mixed model, also known as the competency model, was introduced by Goleman. This model combines emotional abilities with personal and social competencies.[4] The competencies are grouped into four clusters: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management.

Trait Model

The trait model, developed by Konstantinos V. Petrides, views emotional intelligence as a collection of personality traits.[5] It measures behavioral dispositions and self-perceived abilities and is measured through self-report.

Measurement of Emotional Intelligence

There are various tools to measure emotional intelligence, each corresponding to one of the three models of EI. These include the Mayer-Salovey-Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test (MSCEIT), the Emotional Competency Inventory (ECI), and the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire (TEIQue).

Various tools used for measuring emotional intelligence.
Various tools used for measuring emotional intelligence.

Impact of Emotional Intelligence

Research has shown that emotional intelligence has a significant impact on various life domains, including work performance, leadership effectiveness, mental health, and interpersonal relationships.[6]

Criticism and Controversies

Despite its popularity, the concept of emotional intelligence has been criticized on several grounds. Some critics argue that it is not a true form of intelligence, while others question the validity of its measurements. There are also concerns about the use of emotional intelligence in the workplace and its potential for manipulation and control.[7]

A debate surrounding the concept of emotional intelligence.
A debate surrounding the concept of emotional intelligence.

See Also

  1. ↑ Darwin, Charles (1872). "The Expression of the Emotions in Man and Animals". London: John Murray.
  2. ↑ Salovey, P., & Mayer, J.D. (1990). "Emotional intelligence". Imagination, Cognition, and Personality, 9, 185-211.
  3. ↑ Salovey, P., & Mayer, J.D. (1990). "Emotional intelligence". Imagination, Cognition, and Personality, 9, 185-211.
  4. ↑ Goleman, D. (1995). "Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ". New York: Bantam Books.
  5. ↑ Petrides, K.V. (2009). "Psychometric properties of the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire (TEIQue)". In C. Stough, D.H. Saklofske, & J.D.A. Parker (Eds.), Assessing Emotional Intelligence: Theory, Research, and Applications (pp. 85-101). New York: Springer.
  6. ↑ Joseph, D.L., & Newman, D.A. (2010). "Emotional intelligence: An integrative meta-analysis and cascading model". Journal of Applied Psychology, 95, 54-78.
  7. ↑ Matthews, G., Zeidner, M., & Roberts, R.D. (2002). "Emotional Intelligence: Science and Myth". Cambridge, MA: MIT Press.
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