Emotional Intelligence
Four Branch Model of Emotional Intelligence
The Four Branch Model of Emotional Intelligence is a developmental model for emotional intelligence (EI) developed by University of New Hampshire Professor of Psychology John D. Mayer and Yale University President/Professor of Psychology Peter Salovey. It focuses on how individuals perceive, regulate, and think about emotions.
Breakdown by Domain
Domain Key
Cognitive
Emotion
Social
Values
Perspectives
Identity
7%
87%
7%
Key Features
Context & Culture
- Notes that different factors (e.g., values, culture, religion, experiences, etc.) may impact an individual’s understanding and expression of emotions
- Suggests using different measures for different cultures
- Notes that emotional intelligence is required in a variety of settings such as home, school, and work
Developmental Perspective
- The skills under each branch are listed in the order in which they develop, from foundational to more complex
Associated Outcomes
- Research links EI to academic achievement and workplace success
Available Resources
Support Materials
- Recent articles help distinguish the Four Branch Model of EI from other conceptualizations of EI and offer a set of principles for thinking about and assessing EI (see Mayer, Salovey, & Caruso, 2008 and Mayer, Caruso, & Salovey, 2016)
Programs & Strategies
- Recommends incorporating model into liberal arts education (e.g., through reading lessons or conflict resolution programs)
Measurement Tools
- The Mayer-Salovey-Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test (MSCEIT) consists of 8 ability-based tasks (two for each area of EI) and is based on the Four Branch Model of EI
Key Publications
- Mayer, J.D., & Salovey, P. (1997). What is emotional intelligence? In P. Salovey & D. Sluyter (Eds.), Emotional development and emotional intelligence: Educational implications. New York, NY: Basic Books.
- Mayer, J. D., Salovey, P., & Caruso, D.R. (2008). Emotional Intelligence: New Ability or Eclectic Mix of Traits? American Psychologist, 63, 503-517.
- Mayer, J.D., Caruso, D.R., & Salovey, P. (2016). The ability model of emotional intelligence: Principles and updates. Emotion Review, 8, 1-11.