Abstract
Despite the popularity of the concept of emotional intelligence(EI), there is much controversy around its definition, measurement, and validity. Therefore, the authors examined the construct and criterion-related validity of an ability-based EI measure (Mayer Salovey Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test [MSCEIT]) and a mixed-model EI measure (Emotional Quotient Inventory [EQ-i]) using a military sample. Confirmatory factor analyses indicated that the four-factor model for the MSCEIT, but not the five-factor model for the EQ-i, fit well. MSCEIT and EQ-i scores were modestly intercorrelated. Gender was related only to the MSCEIT’s Emotional Perception scale scores. EQ-i scores, but not MSCEIT scores, tended to be strongly related to scores on measures assessing personality, self-monitoring ability, job satisfaction, and life satisfaction. The EQ-i also accounted for incremental variance in job and life satisfaction, after controlling for personality. Overall, cognitive ability scores were unrelated to EQ-i scores and slightly related to two of the MSCEIT scale scores.
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