Development and validation of an online emotional intelligence training program

• DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1221817
• Publication Date: 2023-08-18T09:08:46Z
• Authors: Michelle R. Persi...; Ryan Smith; Sara Cloonan; Lindsey L. Hildeb...; Rebecca Woods-Lubert; Jeff Skalamera; Sarah M. Berryhill; Karen L. Weihs; Richard D. Lane; John J. B. Allen; Natalie S. Dailey; Anna Alkozei; John R. Vanuk; William D. S. Kil...
• Keywords: Socioemotional selectivity theory; Trait

Introduction Emotional intelligence (EI) is associated with a range of positive health, wellbeing, and behavioral outcomes. The present article describes the development validation an online training program for increasing EI abilities in adults. was based on theoretical models emotional functioning empirical literature successful approaches socioemotional skills resilience. Methods After initial design, programming, refinement process, completed tested efficacy sample 326 participants (72% female) from general population. Participants were randomly assigned to complete either ( n = 168) or matched placebo control 158). Each involved 10-12 hours engaging content during 1-week 175) 3-week 151) period. Results who showed increased scores pre- post-training standard self-report (i.e., trait) measures (relative placebo), indicating self-perceived improvements recognizing emotions, understanding managing emotions others. Moreover, those also performance-based ability) measures, demonstrating ability strategically use manage relative placebo. Improvements performance remained significantly higher than baseline when measured six months after completing training. well-received described as helpful engaging. Discussion Following rigorous iterative we created comprehensive empirically that reliably improves both trait outcomes gains are sustained up post-training. This could provide easy scalable method building variety settings.