Marc Brackett: Leader in EQ Science
Dr. Marc Brackett: Pioneer of Emotional Intelligence in Education
Introduction to Dr. Marc Brackett’s Leadership in Emotional Intelligence
Dr. Marc Brackett is one of the most influential figures in the modern study and application of emotional intelligence. As the Founding Director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and a professor at Yale University’s Child Study Center, he has spearheaded transformational research that has redefined how emotional skills are taught in schools, organizations, and leadership circles. Dr. Brackett’s work bridges academic rigor with practical tools, most notably through the RULER approach an evidence-based framework that embeds emotional intelligence into school curricula and corporate culture.
Academic Foundations and Research Contributions
Dr. Brackett holds a Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of New Hampshire. His research focuses on the role of emotions and emotional intelligence in learning, decision-making, relationships, and mental health. He has authored over 150 scholarly articles, chapters, and scientific papers on these topics and is frequently cited in global emotional intelligence research literature.
He is a strong proponent of SEL (Social and Emotional Learning) integration in education systems, aiming to reduce bullying, enhance academic performance, and increase overall well-being. His scientific credibility is further cemented by his leadership in large-scale, longitudinal studies that examine the measurable impact of emotional intelligence curricula in schools.
Architect of the RULER Framework
One of Dr. Brackett’s most significant contributions is the creation of RULER an acronym for Recognizing, Understanding, Labeling, Expressing, and Regulating emotions. RULER is now implemented in over 3,000 schools across the U.S. and internationally, reaching more than 2 million students and educators.
RULER’s Core Components:
Recognizing emotions in oneself and others through facial expressions, body language, tone, and behavior.
Understanding emotions by identifying the causes and consequences of different feelings.
Labeling emotions with a nuanced vocabulary to enhance emotional clarity.
Expressing emotions in contextually appropriate ways to foster authenticity and empathy.
Regulating emotions effectively to maintain psychological balance and build resilience.
RULER empowers educators and students alike to develop the emotional literacy required for academic success and psychological well-being.
Author of the Bestselling Book Permission to Feel
Dr. Brackett’s 2019 book, Permission to Feel, is a New York Times bestseller that brings his academic insights into public discourse. The book is both a memoir and a scientific guide, interweaving personal narratives with research findings. It provides actionable strategies to transform emotions into tools for positive change, both at home and in professional environments.
The book also explores the social stigma surrounding emotional expression, especially among men and in high-performance cultures, advocating for an emotionally expressive society as the key to systemic well-being.
Transforming Education and Leadership Through SEL
Dr. Brackett’s influence extends beyond schools. He works with major corporations, government agencies, and non-profit organizations to embed emotional intelligence into training, policy, and culture.
He has partnered with entities such as Google, Microsoft, Meta, the U.S. Department of Education, and even professional sports leagues. His programs have been implemented in law enforcement training and Fortune 500 executive leadership curricula.
Impact Highlights:
Students in RULER schools report higher academic engagement and lower stress levels.
Educators trained in emotional intelligence show increased job satisfaction and reduced burnout.
Organizations implementing emotional skills programs benefit from improved team cohesion, innovation, and mental health outcomes.
Academic and Global Recognition
Dr. Brackett is a sought-after speaker and has delivered keynote presentations at global forums including the Aspen Ideas Festival, the World Economic Forum, and UNESCO conferences. He serves on numerous boards and advisory councils in the fields of psychology, education, and child development.
He is also a senior advisor to CASEL (Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning), the leading organization promoting integrated SEL programs worldwide.
Educational Tools and Innovations
Beyond RULER, Dr. Brackett has overseen the development of several innovative tools to support emotional education. These include the Mood Meter App, which helps users identify and track their emotional states, and customized emotional intelligence training modules for parents, teachers, and business leaders.
He also fosters professional learning communities where educators can exchange best practices for emotion-driven teaching and student development.
The Kintess School Approach Inspired by Brackett’s Work
At Kintess School, we align closely with Dr. Brackett’s principles. Our SEL programming is deeply inspired by the RULER framework, with a curriculum that teaches emotional intelligence as foundational not supplementary to academic learning.
We implement the Mood Meter in classrooms to help students articulate their emotional states and work on regulation strategies. Our faculty training is rooted in emotional literacy, and we maintain strong partnerships with family communities to extend emotional education beyond the classroom.
Dr. Marc Brackett stands at the forefront of the emotional intelligence movement. His work is not just academic; it’s practical, measurable, and transformative. By creating scalable frameworks like RULER and advocating for “Permission to Feel,” he has elevated the discourse on emotion in education, workplace culture, and personal growth.
Incorporating Dr. Brackett’s methods is not a luxury it’s a necessity for any institution or individual seeking to thrive in today’s complex emotional landscape.