Linking emotions and intelligence was relatively novel when first introduced in a theoretical
model about twenty years ago (Salovey & Mayer, 1990; but see Gardner,
1983 ⁄ 1993). Among the many questions posed by both researchers and laypersons alike
were: Is emotional intelligence an innate, nonmalleable mental ability? Can it be acquired
with instruction and training? Is it a new intelligence or just the repackaging of existing
constructs? How can it be measured reliably and validly? What does the existence of an
emotional intelligence mean in everyday life? In what ways does emotional intelligence
affect mental health, relationships, daily decisions, and academic and workplace performance?