Emotional Intelligence: Science and Myth

by Gerald Matthews, Moshe Zeidner, Richard D. Roberts

Emotional intelligence (EI) is one of the most widely discussed topics in current psychology. Although first mentioned in the professional literature nearly two decades ago, in the past five years it has received extensive media attention. The term "emotional intelligence" refers to the ability to identify, express, and understand emotions; to assimilate emotions into thought; and to regulate both positive and negative emotions in oneself and others. Yet despite the flourishing research programs and broad popular interest, scientific evidence for a clearly identified construct of EI is sparse. It remains to be seen whether there is anything to EI that researchers in the fields of personality, intelligence, and applied psychology do not already know. This book offers a comprehensive critical review of EI. It examines current thinking on the nature, components, determinants, and consequences of EI, and evaluates the state of the art in EI theory, research, assessment, and applications. It highlights the extent to which empirical evidence supports EI as a valid construct and debunks some of the more extravagant claims that appear in the popular media. Finally, it examines the potential use of EI to guide practical interventions in various clinical, occupational, and educational settings.

Genres: Psychology, Science

720 pages, Paperback

First published January 3, 2003

Reviews

[Policythinkshop Blogger · Rating 5 out of 5]

"This book is hard to put down... I read more pop psych stuff prior to diving into this tome. This edited collection will give you an amazing frame of reference on the subject--both from scientific, theoretical and philosophical points of view. I really think it is a great one-stop-shopping tool for reaching a level on this subject where you can do your own thinking on this important concept and be able to repartee with the experts. Emotional Intelligence ("EQ") is probably one of the most important concepts that has been percolating in both academia and in the popular psych world for at least the past decade or more. It complements nicely recent work on cultural competence, collaboration and even Carnegie's stuff. Improve every aspect of your life that has to do with relationships. Hmmm... that would be every realm of your breathing existence... Yeah.. don't forget to thank me for this one... but due stick with it... some chapters, depending on your area of interest (and your EQ) could cause you drowsiness.