Another factor contributing to the popularity of
emotional intelligence theories is the assumption that, unlike IQ,
emotional intelligence can be developed. There has been some
degree of skepticism on this point. For example, one eminent
psychologist recently commented, "We know a great deal about the
origins of personality traits.
Traits from all five factors are strongly influenced by genes and
are extraordinarily persistent in adulthood. This is likely to be
unwelcome news to proponents of emotional intelligence, who have
sometimes contrasted a supposed malleability of emotional
intelligence with the relative fixity of traditional IQ".
However despite this skepticism, there is some evidence that
people can improve on emotional intelligence competencies. One
study conducted at the Weatherhead School of Management at Case
Western Reserve University allowed students to assess their
emotional intelligence competencies, in addition to cognitive
ones, select the specific competencies they would target for
development, and develop and implement an individualized learning
plan to strengthen those competencies.
Objective assessment of students at the beginning of the program,
upon graduation and again years later on-the-job provided a unique
opportunity to help address the issue of whether emotional
intelligence competencies can be developed.
As can be seen, the effects the results of this research have
shown that emotional intelligence competencies can be
significantly improved, and, moreover, these improvements are
sustainable over time.
Summary
One the main points made by psychologists is that the abilities
associated with emotional intelligence have been studied for many
years. There is an impressive, and growing, body of research
suggesting that these abilities are important for success in many
areas of life and particularly strong evidence to suggest that
they are an important predictor of effective performance at work.
There is a considerable body of research suggesting that a
person’s ability to perceive, identify, and manage emotion
provides the basis for the kinds of social and emotional
competencies that are important for success in almost any job. As
the pace of change increases and the world of work makes ever
greater demands on a person’s cognitive, emotional, and physical
resources, this particular set of abilities will become
increasingly important.
Everything you need to pass
psychometric tests
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