Effectiveness of Emotional Intelligence and Psychological Acceptance in Promoting Chinese People's Mental Health

Abstract

Studies have found that some dimensions of emotional intelligence (e.g. emotional expression or utilization) may vary in their effects on mental health because of cultural factors. The efficacy of emotional intelligence on mental health can be fully realized in Western society; however, it is maladjusted to Eastern society. Compared with emotional intelligence, the positive benefit of psychological acceptance on mental health may have more generalizability across cultures. Psychological acceptance may be more effective than emotional intelligence in improving the mental health of Chinese people. The aims of this study are outlined as follows: to present the relationship between emotional intelligence, mental health and cultural norms; compare the effectiveness of emotional intelligence and psychological acceptance in promoting Chinese people's mental health; and propose possible directions for future research by looking at unanswered questions.