HED4814
Assignment 3
Due 11 September 2025
, HED4814
Assignment 3
Due 11 September 2025
Section A: Emotional Intelligence
Question 1: Define Emotional Intelligence (EI) and describe its components
Definition of Emotional Intelligence (EI):
Emotional Intelligence (EI) refers to the ability to recognize, interpret, and regulate one’s
own emotions while simultaneously perceiving, understanding, and influencing the
emotions of others. This multidimensional construct, advanced by Daniel Goleman
(1995), extends beyond cognitive intelligence (IQ) by foregrounding interpersonal
sensitivity, emotional regulation, and adaptive functioning. Unlike IQ, which primarily
measures cognitive capacity, EI emphasizes the socio-emotional dimensions of human
functioning that underpin resilience, relationship-building, and effective stress
management. Research increasingly highlights EI as a decisive determinant of
academic achievement, professional success, and psychological well-being.
Components of Emotional Intelligence:
EI comprises five interdependent components, each contributing to holistic emotional
competence:
1. Self-awareness – the cornerstone of EI, involving recognition of one’s emotional
states and their influence on cognition and behavior. For instance, Thabo may
recognize that his frustration during classroom disruptions stems from anxieties
related to instability at home. This awareness fosters constructive reflection and
improved emotional monitoring.
2. Self-regulation – the capacity to manage disruptive emotions, adapt flexibly to
change, and express feelings appropriately. For Thabo, this could involve
Assignment 3
Due 11 September 2025
, HED4814
Assignment 3
Due 11 September 2025
Section A: Emotional Intelligence
Question 1: Define Emotional Intelligence (EI) and describe its components
Definition of Emotional Intelligence (EI):
Emotional Intelligence (EI) refers to the ability to recognize, interpret, and regulate one’s
own emotions while simultaneously perceiving, understanding, and influencing the
emotions of others. This multidimensional construct, advanced by Daniel Goleman
(1995), extends beyond cognitive intelligence (IQ) by foregrounding interpersonal
sensitivity, emotional regulation, and adaptive functioning. Unlike IQ, which primarily
measures cognitive capacity, EI emphasizes the socio-emotional dimensions of human
functioning that underpin resilience, relationship-building, and effective stress
management. Research increasingly highlights EI as a decisive determinant of
academic achievement, professional success, and psychological well-being.
Components of Emotional Intelligence:
EI comprises five interdependent components, each contributing to holistic emotional
competence:
1. Self-awareness – the cornerstone of EI, involving recognition of one’s emotional
states and their influence on cognition and behavior. For instance, Thabo may
recognize that his frustration during classroom disruptions stems from anxieties
related to instability at home. This awareness fosters constructive reflection and
improved emotional monitoring.
2. Self-regulation – the capacity to manage disruptive emotions, adapt flexibly to
change, and express feelings appropriately. For Thabo, this could involve
