5 differences between IQ and EQ

IQ and EQ are two abbreviations that are often mentioned, but not everyone knows what they mean. In short, they are intelligence measures that are based on test results or tools designed to evaluate abilities.

Since they allow us to establish the level at which a person is based on a pre-established model, many experts question the validity of both IQ and EQ to determine the level of emotional or cognitive intelligence of people.

In any case, these are two measures applied in many areas of the world today. Next, we will address in greater depth the main differences that exist between IQ and EQ.

What are the differences between IQ and EQ?

Although IQ and EQ correspond to measures that have a certain similarity, they are related to different areas: The first, IQ, refers to the intellectual coefficient; the second, EQ, corresponds to the emotional coefficient. In this sense, each one has certain peculiarities, which we will explain to you below.

1. IQ and EQ focus on different skills

IQ and EQ pay attention to different abilities. IQ focuses on general cognitive ability, which has to do with the ability to reason, solve problems, learn and understand new ideas. Therefore, this IQ involves the evaluation of the following skills:

logical reasoning, verbal reasoning, numerical reasoning, processing speed, visual-spatial understanding, short and long term memory.

On the other hand, EQ focuses on the ability to recognize and regulate one’s own and others’ emotions., and in the ability to use emotions to guide thinking and behavior. Thus, this coefficient focuses on evaluating skills such as the following:

empathy, motivation, social skills, emotional regulation, emotional self-awareness.

2. They examine different types of intelligence

Another difference between IQ and EQ is that the first refers to cognitive intelligence, which can be measured through standardized and objective tests. There are defined tests that include questions and exercises. These are used, in the same way, in any situation or anywhere in the world.

For its part, EQ refers to emotional intelligence, which is more difficult to measure objectively and is largely based on self-reports.. In general, EQ is evaluated using tools such as the following:

structured interviews, questionnaires and surveys, performance evaluations, observation evaluations.

3. The results allow us to predict different types of success

Usually, A high IQ predicts better academic and work performance. It is common for those who obtain a high score to be better prepared to handle complex situations and solve problems. Additionally, it has been found that IQ can be a useful predictor of certain outcomes, such as the likelihood of graduating from college or having a well-paying job.

EQ, on the other hand, predicts better performance in social and emotional situations, such as conflict resolution, empathy, and effective communication.

However, IQ and EQ cannot be taken in an absolute sense. There are many cases in which a high IQ is not enough to achieve professional success. Likewise, a high level of emotional intelligence can more than compensate for a lower IQ score.

In fact, several investigations have linked good academic performance with emotional quotient. To cite one of them, we can mention the research published by the Havana journal of medical scienceswhere university students were evaluated and it was determined that high emotional intelligence significantly influences better academic performance.

4. There is a different development potential

For many years, it was believed that IQ was a fixed measure of intelligence and that it could not change throughout a person’s life. However, research published by the IZA Institute of Labor Economics showed that IQ is not fixed.

Although in general terms IQ tends to be stable, Yes, it can be influenced by various factors, such as access to resources, nutrition, etc. The same way, IQ scores can increase in adolescence and decrease in late adulthood.

The EQ is also not fixed; In fact, it tends to be much more flexible and changes more throughout life. It can be influenced by factors such as education, work experience, nutrition, and exposure to different situations and cultures.

Likewise, emotional and social skills training can improve a person’s EQ. What’s more, many companies and organizations are implementing training programs to improve the emotional and social skills of their employees.

5. The results are interpreted differently

Among the differences between IQ and EQ, there is also that IQ, or intelligence quotient, is a numerical measurement used to estimate a person’s intelligence. It is expressed as a number that is placed on a scale, with a mean score of 100 and a standard deviation of 15 points.

This means that most people have an IQ score between 85 and 115 points. Only a small percentage of the population scores very low or very high.

Meanwhile, It is not appropriate to classify people based on their level of emotional intelligence.. EQ is not a measure of personal superiority or inferiority, but rather it is a skill that can be developed and improved over time. Each person is unique and has their own combination of strengths and weaknesses when it comes to EQ.

IQ and EQ, measures in controversy

Currently, these models to estimate intelligence and abilities are under debate, since Many researchers have disagreed with these types of measurements.. They consider that they have biases and that they do not really allow us to establish a person’s potential, neither intellectually nor emotionally.

Finally, it is also important to mention within these differences between IQ and EQ that these do not have a direct correlation. A person can have a high IQ, but a low EQ, or vice versa..

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