Building Emotional Intelligence

Topic: Building Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence (EI) refers to the ability to perceive, control, and evaluate emotions. Some researchers suggest that emotional intelligence can be learned and strengthened, while others claim it is an inborn characteristic. A number of testing instruments have been developed to measure emotional intelligence, although the content and approach of each test varies. The quiz presents a mix of self-report and situational questions related to various aspects of emotional intelligence.

What is your emotional intelligence quotient?

Before beginning this essay, take a moment to participate in one of the many online assessments of Emotional Intelligence (EI). You may select a quiz from the sites listed in the handout in this week’s Optional Resources, or you may select another site.

Below are the result of “MY” quiz from http://psychology.about.com/library/quiz/bl_eq_quiz_results.htm?cor=83

How Did You Score?
*My results indicate a high score on emotional intelligence.

What Does Your Score Mean?
*People who score high on emotional intelligence tend to be skilled at interpreting, understanding, and acting upon emotions. They are adept at dealing with social or emotional conflicts, expressing their feelings, and dealing with emotional situations.

It’s important to remember that no matter how good your score is, there is always room to improve your emotional intelligence. Consider areas where you are not as strong and think of ways that you can learn and grow. Take stock of your strong points and find ways to continue to develop and apply these skills.

Note that most free online tools may not be considered valid predictors of your true EI score, but you may find they offer you insight into areas of strength and areas for improvement.

Note: After assessing your own score, you do not need to share your findings with your colleagues.

For this Assignment, please answer in the following in an essay:

How can one build her or his Emotional Intelligence?

Suggest three methods, being sure to INCLUDE the SOURCES of the information.

Provide information, examples, or exercises.

For each suggestion, articulate the PROS and CONS of this method, including your analysis of the applicability of this method as a tool to increase your own EI.

Make every attempt to build the body of knowledge, attempting to add to the growing list of possible resources.