Human behavior and intelligence have always been one of the main objects of study in psychology. For this reason, throughout history many theories have emerged around this topic, such as Howard Gardner’s multiple intelligences, among many others. However, one of the studies that has had 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 intellectual quotient (IQ), but that they must also develop an emotional quotient (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, at Psychology-Online we explain in detail the types of emotional intelligence so that you identify them and learn to enhance them assertively.
The 5 components of emotional intelligence according to Daniel Goleman
Emotional intelligence (EI) is a concept that was developed by the psychologist 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 for direct thought and behavior.
Furthermore, the American psychologist points out that there are 5 essential elements in emotional intelligence. Let’s see what they are:
- Self-awareness: refers to the ability to understand one’s own emotions. In addition, it allows us to have an idea of how the emotions and actions of others influence our state of mind. Also, it includes the ability to become aware of our limitations and strengths to open ourselves to new experiences.
- Self-regulation: it is awareness in oneself. That is, self-regulation allows us to know and control our own emotions, whether positive or negative. The objective of this dimension is to have the ability to choose our behavior in all areas of life to avoid a negative reactionary approach to the challenges and events that happen to us. In other words, it is learning to control impulses.
- Empathy: it is the ability to understand other people. In short, it is putting yourself in the shoes of others to enhance social relationships 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 drive likely comes from the need for acceptance, fame, or success. In short, each motivation is individual and responds to a particular value scheme.
- Social skills: this is a component that has to do with the way you interact with other people. It is the ability to know how to relate to those around you to strengthen social ties. It is not just establishing relationships without any purpose. Rather, it is practicing active listening, communication skills, empathy and leadership.
Now that you know the 5 components of emotional intelligence, let’s see what types of emotional intelligence exist:
Intrapersonal intelligence
As its name indicates, intrapersonal intelligence is nothing more than knowledge and understanding of our own emotions. It consists of the ability to reflect or look inside oneself to know what one thinks, knows, believes and feels. It is the ability to understand ourselves and the way we function.
In other words, each individual is full of emotions that are inherent to the human condition. However, it allows you to identify those emotional states so that you learn to manage them effectively.
A simple example of this type of intelligence is when someone recognizes that they are feeling sad and will not be able to make good decisions. Therefore, implement some attitudes or activities that help you get out of that emotional state.
Interpersonal intelligence
From EI theory, it refers to the ability to recognize and accept the emotions of other people. According to different scientific studies, this type of emotional intelligence resides in the frontal lobes and is trainable.
To do this, it is necessary to put into practice empathy, communication and interpersonal skills. Furthermore, when you learn to recognize external emotions, you can make better decisions based on a social group to understand the world around us.
An example of interpersonal intelligence is seen daily in therapeutic and psychological consultations, in which professionals must learn to actively listen their patients’ dilemmas and be empathetic. Also, great business leaders and entrepreneurs are a good example of the development of interpersonal intelligence.
How to work on emotional intelligence
In terms of emotional intelligence, it is important to start improve the management of our own emotions for the individual benefit and of all the people around us. Furthermore, it is essential to work on both types of emotional intelligence to enhance our well-being.
If you found this article on the types of emotional intelligence useful, you can read our article, you will love it!
This article is merely informative, at Psychology-Online we do not have the power to make a diagnosis or recommend a treatment. We invite you to go to a psychologist to treat your particular case.
If you want to read more articles similar to Types of emotional intelligence according to Daniel Golemanwe recommend that you enter our category.
Bibliography
- Arrabal, M. (2019). Emotional Intelligence. Elearning Editorial. Spain.
- Goleman, D. (1995). Emotional Intelligence. Vergara. Argentina.