Ability-Related Emotional Intelligence: Knowns, Unknowns, and Future Directions

Overview & Synopsis

Emotionally intelligent people are thought to be more skilled in recognizing, thinking about, using, and managing emotions. Enthusiasm for this construct has given rise to a mixed body of findings, and it is useful to begin charting new directions for the field. In support of these efforts, experts were asked to contribute to a Special Issue on ability-related approaches to emotional intelligence (EI). Special Issue papers speak to theory, mechanism, measurement, and training. In addition, papers seek to forge links with research traditions focused on interpersonal perception, emotional awareness, and emotion regulation. As the result of these efforts, new insights into EI—such as what it consists of and how it works—can be anticipated in upcoming years.