Historical Development of Emotional Intelligence
The concept of emotional intelligence has transformed how we understand human potential, especially in educational, social, and professional contexts. While emotional intelligence (EI) is now a widely recognized skill, its development as a psychological and educational concept is rooted in decades of evolving research and theory. Tracing the history of emotional intelligence reveals how our understanding of emotions and cognition has shifted from traditional IQ-based models to more holistic views of intelligence.
Early Foundations: Intelligence Beyond IQ
The history of emotional intelligence begins with the broader study of human intelligence. In the early 20th century, intelligence was largely defined by one’s ability to reason logically, solve problems, and process information—skills measured through the intelligence quotient (IQ). Psychologists like Alfred Binet and Lewis Terman developed standardized IQ tests that became the benchmark for academic and cognitive ability.
However, critics soon recognized that IQ alone could not fully explain human potential or success. People with high IQs were not always socially adept, emotionally stable, or successful in leadership and interpersonal roles. This led researchers to consider non-cognitive aspects of intelligence, such as personality, motivation, and emotional functioning.
The Emergence of Emotional Intelligence
The term emotional intelligence was first introduced in the scientific literature by psychologists Peter Salovey and John D. Mayer in 1990. They defined it as “the ability to monitor one’s own and others’ feelings and emotions, to discriminate among them, and to use this information to guide one’s thinking and actions.” Their model outlined four branches of emotional intelligence:
Perceiving emotions
Using emotions to facilitate thought
Understanding emotions
Managing emotions
Salovey and Mayer’s work laid the theoretical foundation for the field, but it was Daniel Goleman who brought the concept to public attention.
Daniel Goleman and Popularization
In 1995, science journalist and psychologist Daniel Goleman published his groundbreaking book Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ. Goleman expanded on Salovey and Mayer’s model and proposed five key components: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills.
Goleman’s work resonated with educators, parents, and business leaders alike. It emphasized that emotional competencies were just as crucial as technical abilities for personal and professional success. His research linked emotional intelligence to leadership, mental health, academic achievement, and workplace performance, igniting global interest and spawning numerous programs in schools and corporations.
Emotional Intelligence in Education
By the early 2000s, emotional intelligence had become a core element of educational reform. Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) programs were introduced in schools around the world, aiming to teach students how to recognize emotions, manage conflict, develop empathy, and build healthy relationships. These programs recognized that emotional intelligence could be taught and cultivated just like academic skills.
The integration of emotional intelligence into curriculum and teacher training marked a shift toward holistic education one that values not just what students know, but who they are and how they feel.
The Kintess School Approach: Bridging History and Practice
At Kintess, the history of emotional intelligence directly informs the school’s progressive educational model. Understanding the evolution of EI allows Kintess educators to draw from both foundational research and modern applications. The school incorporates emotional intelligence into its core philosophy, treating it not as an add-on, but as a daily practice.
Students at Kintess engage in structured SEL sessions that address self-awareness, emotional regulation, empathy, and interpersonal communication. Teachers model emotionally intelligent behavior, guiding students through challenges with compassion and reflection. Conflict resolution is handled through restorative practices, and emotional check-ins are a regular part of the classroom routine. By honoring the historical roots and modern significance of EI, Kintess helps students become emotionally agile, socially competent, and academically confident. The history of emotional intelligence shows how far we’ve come in understanding the role emotions play in human development and success. From IQ-focused models to a more balanced view that includes emotional and social competence, the journey of EI has reshaped education and leadership. Schools like Kintess demonstrate that by grounding instruction in both academic rigor and emotional growth, we prepare students not just for exams but for life.