Emotional intelligence as a standard intelligence.

TLDR

Emotional intelligence has been debated as meeting traditional intelligence standards, with critics questioning whether EI tests have correct answers. The authors aim to clarify their view of intelligence, emotion, and EI to address these concerns. They argue that EI can be measured as an ability, that correct answers exist, and cite recent data supporting its reliability.

Abstract

The authors have claimed that emotional intelligence (EI) meets traditional standards for an intelligence (J. D. Mayer, D. R. Caruso, & P. Salovey, 1999). R. D. Roberts, M. Zeidner, and G. Matthews (2001) questioned whether that claim was warranted. The central issue raised by Roberts et al. concerning Mayer et al. (1999) is whether there are correct answers to questions on tests purporting to measure EI as a set of abilities. To address this issue (and others), the present authors briefly restate their view of intelligence, emotion, and EI. They then present arguments for the reasonableness of measuring EI as an ability, indicate that correct answers exist, and summarize recent data suggesting that such measures are, indeed, reliable.