The main difference between IQ and EQ is that IQ is a measure of someone’s reasoning ability, while EQ is the ability to perceive, evaluate and control emotions.
IQ and EQ are two terms that are commonly confused and misused. These are two different measures. IQ stands for intelligence quotient, while EQ stands for emotional quotient. We consider IQ as an estimate of a person’s intelligence, but we consider EQ as a person’s ability to understand and manage emotions.
Key Areas Covered
1. What is IQ
– Definition, Features
2. What is EQ
– Definition, Features
3. Difference Between IQ and EQ
– Comparison of Key Differences
Key Terms
EQ, Emotional Quotient, IQ, Intelligence Quotient
What is IQ
IQ, which stands for intelligence quotient, is a measure of someone’s reasoning ability. IQ is actually a number that is supposed to indicate how well someone can use information and logic to solve problems. We usually consider IQ as an estimate of a person’s intelligence. The IQ of a person is measured by an IQ test. IQ tests measure both crystallized intelligence and fluid intelligence. Crystallized intelligence is the knowledge and skills we acquire throughout life, while fluid intelligence is a person’s ability to reason, solve problems, and understand abstract information. The former is directly associated with learning and experience and increases as we grow older. However, the latter, i.e., fluid intelligence, is not dependent on learning and tends to decline as we grow older. However, it’s also important to notice that since intelligence is an abstract concept, it’s not possible to achieve a concrete measure of intelligence.
There are different types of IQ tests. They may contain a series of subtests that can measure memory, reasoning skills, mathematical abilities, and information-processing speed. Moreover, licensed psychologists can administer these tests. IQ scores are used in academic placements (in college and university entrance exams), selection of employees, and identifying intellectual disabilities.
What is EQ
EQ stands for emotional quotient or emotional intelligence. It refers to our capability to recognize our own emotions and the emotions of others, differentiate between various feelings and label them appropriately, use emotional information to direct thinking and behaviour and adjust emotions to adapt to different situations. In other words, EQ is the ability to perceive, evaluate and control emotions. Moreover, researchers suggest that there are four components in emotional intelligence: perceiving emotions, reasoning with emotions, understanding emotions, and managing emotions. While some researchers claim that EQ is an inborn characteristic, some others argue that it can be learned.
Furthermore, there are various tests to measure EQ. The trait model focuses on self-reporting behavioural dispositions. In addition, this is the easiest to administer and score. The ability model, on the other hand, focuses on a person’s ability to process emotional information and utilize it to adjust to the social environment.
Difference Between IQ and EQ
Definition
IQ is basically a number representing a person’s reasoning ability, while EQ is the ability to perceive, evaluate and control emotions.
Stands for
IQ stands for intelligence quotient, while EQ stands for emotional quotient.
Components
The components in IQ involve the knowledge and skills we acquire throughout life and our ability to reason, solve problems, and understand abstract information. However, there are four components in emotional intelligence: perceiving emotions, reasoning with emotions, understanding emotions, and managing emotions.
Conclusion
IQ stands for intelligence quotient, while EQ stands for emotional quotient. The main difference between IQ and EQ is that IQ is a measure of someone’s reasoning ability, while EQ is the ability to perceive, evaluate and control emotions.
Reference:
1. Cherry, Kendra. “Is Your IQ Score Above Average?” Verywell Mind, 4 June 2020, Available here.
2. “Improving Emotional Intelligence (EQ).” HelpGuide.org, Available here.
Image Courtesy:
1. “4715301” (CC0) via Pixabay
2. “4682774” (CC0) via Pixabay
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