Types Of Emotional Intelligence

Human behaviour and intelligence have always been the main objects of study in psychology. Therefore, throughout history, many theories have emerged around this subject, such as Howard Gardner's multiple intelligences, among many others. However, one of the studies that have caused the most impact on society is the theory of Emotional Intelligence proposed by Daniel Goleman in 1990.

From then on, it is no longer only said that people have an IQ, but also that they must develop an emotional coefficient (QE) to learn to manage, understand and control their own emotions, as well as to identify and manage those of others. If you are interested in this topic, in Psychology-Online we explain in detail the types of emotional intelligence so that you can identify them and learn to enhance them assertively.

What is emotional intelligence?

The interest in emotional intelligence, which differed considerably from the well-known and unique "IQ" addressed so far as the only type of intelligence in the human being, arose already in the 20s with authors such as Thorndike, who spoke of social intelligence, or Wechsler who in 1940 described non-cognitive aspects as determinants of human behaviour.

In 1983, Gardner explained in his "Theory of Multiple Intelligences" in which he explained that IQ was not enough to explain the complex intelligence of people.

Finally, in 1995, the publication of Daniel Goleman's book called "Emotional Intelligence" was a great boost to the term that had been working discreetly for the last decades. According to this author, emotional intelligence constitutes a mode of interaction with the world that takes into account feelings and that occurs through the following skills:

• Impulse control.
• Awareness.
• Motivation.
• Enthusiasm.
• Perseverance.
• Empathy.
• Mental agility.

These concrete character traits are essential for a correct, healthy and successful social adaptation. The importance of emotional intelligence has been analyzed more and more in-depth, giving rise to specific areas of research studies such as the workplace, education and family.

The 5 components of emotional intelligence according to Daniel Goleman

Emotional intelligence (EI) is a concept that was developed by psychologist Daniel Goleman in his book published in 1990. The author defined it as a form of social intelligence that involves the ability to perceive and name emotions, discern between various emotions, and use this information to direct thought and behaviour.

In addition, the American psychologist points out that there are 5 essential elements in emotional intelligence. Let's see what they are:

Self-awareness: the ability to comprehend one's own feelings. Furthermore, it enables us to understand how the emotions and acts of others affect our mood. It also includes the ability to become aware of our limitations and strengths to open ourselves to new experiences.

Self-regulation: is consciousness itself. That is, self-regulation allows us to know and control our own emotions, whether positive or negative. The goal of this dimension is to have the ability to choose our behaviour in all areas of life to avoid a negative reactionary approach to the challenges and events that happen to us. In other words, it's learning to control impulses.

Empathy: is the ability to comprehend others. In short, it is to put yourself in the place of others to enhance social relations of all kinds. It is necessary to understand that our actions and emotions can affect others.

Motivation: Motivation, as a component of EI, refers to the intrinsic drive you have to do something or to achieve a certain goal. That impulse is likely to come from the need for acceptance, fame, or success. In short, each motivation is individual and responds to a particular scheme of values.

Social skills: this is a component that has to do with how to interact with other people. It is the ability to know how to relate to those around you to strengthen social ties. It's not just establishing relationships without any purpose. It is rather to practice active listening, communication skills, empathy and leadership.

Now that you know the 5 components of emotional intelligence according to Daniel Goleman, let's see what types of emotional intelligence exist.

Conclusions about the types of emotional intelligence

When it comes to emotional intelligence, it is important to start improving the management of our own emotions for the benefit of individuals and all the people around us. In addition, it is essential to work on both types of emotional intelligence to enhance our well-being.

The importance of emotional intelligence has become manifest in recent years in the different areas of the life of the human being, especially since the publication of Daniel Goleman's book "Emotional Intelligence". The development of this capacity from the earliest childhood becomes a desirable goal for the life of any human being as it is a high guarantee of personal and social success.