The “best” emotional intelligence (EI) model depends on the context in which it’s being applied and the specific aspects of EI one wishes to understand or develop. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, as each model offers unique insights and focuses on different dimensions of emotional intelligence.
Three models are widely recognized and have significantly contributed to the understanding and application of EI in various fields…
- The Ability Model:
- Proponents – John D. Mayer and Peter Salovey, later expanded upon by David Caruso.
- Focus – This model treats emotional intelligence as a set of abilities that relate to processing emotional information and using it to navigate the social environment. It includes four branches: perceiving emotions, using emotions to facilitate thought, understanding emotions, and managing emotions.
- Application – The Mayer-Salovey-Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test (MSCEIT) is based on this model, designed to assess these abilities through tasks and emotional challenges.
- The Mixed Model:
- Proponent – Daniel Goleman.
- Focus – Goleman’s model expands EI beyond cognitive abilities to include personality traits and behavioral dispositions. It encompasses five main domains: self-awareness, self-regulation, internal motivation, empathy, and social skills.
- Application – This model has been particularly influential in the context of leadership and organizational behavior, highlighting the importance of emotional intelligence in effective leadership and team dynamics.
- The Trait Model:
- Proponent – Konstantin Vasily Petrides.
- Focus – This model views emotional intelligence as a collection of emotional self-perceptions and emotional traits located at the lower levels of personality hierarchies. It is assessed through self-report as opposed to the ability-based measures of the Mayer-Salovey model.
- Application – The Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire (TEIQue) is designed to measure global trait emotional intelligence, providing insights into how individuals perceive their emotional abilities.
Which Model to Choose?
- For Academic and Cognitive Focus – If the interest is in understanding EI as a cognitive ability, particularly in academic or psychological research, the Ability Model might be considered the best fit.
- For Practical Application in Workplaces and Leadership – The Mixed Model, especially Goleman’s interpretation, is highly regarded for its applicability in leadership development, organizational behavior, and personal development.
- For Personality and Self-Perception Insights – The Trait Model offers valuable insights into how individuals perceive their emotional capacities and how these perceptions influence their behavior and interactions.
The choice among these models depends on the specific objectives, whether it’s for academic research, personal development, or application in organizational settings. Each model contributes to a broader understanding of emotional intelligence, and many practitioners and researchers draw upon elements from all three to inform their work.
