Emotional Intelligence and Social Perception

Abstract

Abstract

The concept of Emotional Intelligence (EI) involves understanding the relation between reason and emotion. The present study introduces EI and investigates its relation to social intelligence (SI) and nonverbal communication. EI has been described as the subset of SI which enables the ability to interpret the expressive behaviours of others. Nonverbal cues such as facial expressions, gestures, and posture have an influence on behaviour which helps to inform and guide our interactions and interpretations. In the present study EI is measured using the following standardized interpersonal perception tests; the Social Perception Test (SPT), Interpersonal Perception Task (IPT), and Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test (RTMITE). The SPT uses a ‘real life’ measure of EI by capturing naturalistic photographs of individuals interacting without their prior knowledge. The IPT uses video recordings of naturalist behaviour, and RTMITE uses pictures of sets of eyes. The study will also examine the difference between video and picture testing and investigate the performance of the tests in relation to the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ). The results of the study support the hypothesis confirming the SPT is a valid as a measure of EI.