What’s more important in determining life successbook smarts or street smarts?
This article compares IQ vs. EQ and how the two are different.
Some psychologists believe that standard measures ofintelligence(i.e.
Illustration by Hugo Lin, Verywell
IQ scores) are too narrow and do not encompass the full range of human intelligence.
What Kind of Intelligence Do You Have?
This score is derived from a standardizedtest.
Social and emotional learning is a curriculum requirement in some schools in the United States.
Measuring IQ
Several different IQ tests can be used.
Some are designed for use with adults, while others are developed to measure IQ in children.
Some other tests involve having an observer rate another person’s abilities and behaviors.
Which Is More Important?
At one point in time, IQ was viewed as the primary determinant of success.
However, some critics began to realize that high intelligence was no guarantee for success in life.
It was also perhaps too narrow a concept to fully encompass the wide range of human abilities and knowledge.
But today experts recognize that IQ is not the only determinant of life success.
Instead, it is part of a complex array of influencesone that includes emotional intelligence.
Many companies now mandate emotional intelligence training and use EQ tests as part of the hiring process.
Emotional abilities can also influence consumers' choices when confronted with buying decisions.
They are not simply inherent, unchangeable qualities.
The validity of IQ tests has long been questioned.
Emotional intelligence is also affected by environmental variables.
Recap
It is important to remember the measurement of IQ and EQ is subject to limitations.
These are not purely fixed, inherent qualities.
Tests cannot capture all aspects of intelligence and may be affected by bias.
Can IQ and EQ Be Improved?
If emotional intelligence is so important, can it be taught or strengthened?
A Word From Verywell
Life success is a result of many factors.
Both IQ and EQ play roles in overall success, as well as health, wellness, and happiness.
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