| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | The SAGE encyclopedia of children and childhood studies |
| Editors | Daniel Thomas Cook |
| Publisher | Sage Publications Ltd |
| ISBN (Print) | 9781473942929 |
| Publication status | Published - 31 May 2020 |
Abstract
Emotional intelligence (EI) is an umbrella term that is used to describe a whole range of things that may well be qualitatively different. It’s used to refer to emotional awareness, personal competence, social skills, but something that is slightly separate from mental health. It is a fuzzy concept that since its appearance in the early 1990s has caught the attention of the mainstream media whilst remaining problematic within academic circles. Generally, EI is understood as an individual’s ability to understand, manage and apply their emotions positively in a range of situations as well as recognise and support the emotions of others. In connecting the term intelligence to emotions, we can also determine that the emotions are distinct, performable and measurable. This entry presents an overview of the EI concept, identifying where it came from, what it is, practice models, critical responses and its current use.
