I often talk to clients about Emotional Intelligence (EI) in session when appropriate. I also teach it directly to groups. I find this topic especially useful with youth who are interested in understanding themselves better as well as parents who see that their children are struggling emotionally, socially, and/or academically.
EI encompasses:
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Self-awareness & developing a positive sense of self-worth
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Problem-solving
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Emotional management/Impulse control,
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Decision-making
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Relationship-building / Empathy / Social skills
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Taking responsibility for one’s actions
EI is about developing people skills and common sense
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EI may be learned as a result of previous social experiences .
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EI can be learned at any age.
Youth with a low EI can be described as:
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inexpressive
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having negative attitudes
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impulsive
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rarely claiming responsibility for their actions
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disconnected from peers and teachers
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struggling with decisions, and
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doing poorly in school