Emotional Intelligence: Science and Myth

Emotional intelligence (EI) is one of the most widely discussed topics in currentpsychology. Although first mentioned in the professional literature nearly two decades ago, in thepast five years it has received extensive media attention. The term "emotional intelligence" refersto 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 theflourishing research programs and broad popular interest, scientific evidence for a clearlyidentified construct of EI is sparse. It remains to be seen whether there is anything to EI thatresearchers in the fields of personality, intelligence, and applied psychology do not alreadyknow.This book offers a comprehensive critical review of EI. It examines current thinking on thenature, components, determinants, and consequences of EI, and evaluates the state of the art in EItheory, research, assessment, and applications. It highlights the extent to which empirical evidencesupports EI as a valid construct and debunks some of the more extravagant claims that appear in thepopular media. Finally, it examines the potential use of EI to guide practical interventions invarious clinical, occupational, and educational settings.

Richard D. Roberts is Principal Research Scientist at the Center for New Constructs, Educational Testing Service.