Minutes

Why do some people stay calm under pressure while others struggle to control their emotions? Psychologists explored emotional intelligence, or how people perceive, understand, and manage their emotions, as well as recognize and influence the emotions of others. 

Researchers examined over 2,000 Greek university students’ personality patterns to understand how they recognize and regulate feelings. To assess how participants identify, use, and control emotions, researchers measured personality traits of openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, and agreeableness, as well as how they regulate their own emotions. 

Results? Four personality profiles emerged: resilient, anti-resilient, under controlled, and average. The Resilient show low neuroticism, that is, less fear, anger, shame, envy, and depression. They also showed high openness, conscientiousness, and agreeableness, scoring highest in every emotional intelligence area. They read others’ emotions, stay calm, and use feelings effectively. The Anti-resilient and Under-controlled, however, report more difficulty understanding and managing emotions, and show lower self-awareness and regulation. 

People who are emotionally controlled and open manage emotions best. Those who are tense or impulsive struggle most. Learn self-awareness and how to handle your emotions—take a course or try therapy. The more you understand your inner world, the more you can confidently move through life!