Introduction
Scientific landscape shows a great attention for emotional
intelligence (EI). However, the definition of this construct remains
somewhat elusive, with a number of competing models emerging
in the literature in recent decades [1–7]. Bar-On’s model is one of
the most prevalent models in the literature, comprising a global
trait EI dimension, five broad factors, and 15 more narrow facets
[8]. It broadly conceptualizes EI as ‘‘an array of non-cognitive
capabilities, competencies, and skills that influence one’s ability to
succeed in coping with environmental demands and pressures’’ (p.
14). However, the measure based on this model, the Emotional
Quotient Inventory (EQ-i), is most appropriately viewed as a
measure of trait EI, since it assesses typical rather than maximum
performance [3]. Trait EI is an umbrella construct that integrates
the range of personality traits linked to emotions; it represents the
affective dimension of personality [3].