Cognitive Intelligence v Emotional Intelligence

“Emotional Intelligence refers to a person’s ability to successfully manage emotions in self and in others” (Daft 2008, p.143).


“Cognitive Intelligence refers to the ability to act purposefully, think rationally and deal effectively within your environment” (Stein 2009, p.44).


When working within the social care profession, it is my understanding that emotional and cognitive intelligence are much needed tools when dealing with the different types of service users.


With regards to cognitive intelligence, I believe this to be true because for example: When working with any of the above groups of people, it is part of the job to be able to think outside of the box and come up with different ways of helping the service user that will benefit them in a positive way. According to Cree and Myers (2008), thinking outside of the box is fundamental in order to really make an impact on lives. I also believe that having the ability to think of positive ways of dealing with certain situations you may find yourself in will allow for a more enjoyable and successful career.


In relation to emotional intelligence and a social care setting, my thoughts are that any person in this area of work or thinking of a career in this area should be emotionally intelligent. A social care worker/social worker should have the ability to empathise with service users, be understanding and non-judgemental towards them in addition to having strong communication skills, motivation, self-awareness and an ability to reflect critically on a situation. It is important to make the service user feel that someone cares about what they may be going through.

I believe both emotional intelligence and cognitive intelligence to be equally important traits to have in any social care setting. One goes hand in hand with the other for this particular line of work. It is fundamental in this type of work to have the ability to use your head to deal with a situation whilst at the same time always thinking about the feelings of the service user.






Reference list

Daft. R.L, (2008), The Leadership Experience and Infotrac, Fourth Edition, USA: Thomson Higher Education.

Stein. S.J, (2009), Emotional Intelligence for Dummies, Canada: John Wiley and Sons Canada Ltd.

Cree. V, Myers. S, (2008), Social Work, Making a Difference, UK: The Policy Press.

Shutterstock, (2012), Human Brain Research, [online], Available at: http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-87221350/stock-photo-human-brain-research-and-intelligence-in-autism-as-a-puzzle-with-a-blue-glowing-maze-and-labyrinth.html [Accessed 7th December 2012].