Emotional intelligence and medicine

Abstract

‘Emotional intelligence’ is currently a buzz phrase in the world of business, where it is regarded as a prerequisite for all those aspiring to a leadership role. Roger Kirby describes what it is and asks how important is it for doctors to have it?

Seven habits of effective doctors

“…A high IQ is certainly one of these, and the exacting requirements for entry into medical school reflect that. Equally important though is emotional intelligence (EQ), especially self‐awareness and self‐regulation – characteristics that need to be developed during training and scrupulously maintained throughout one's career 4 . Staying in control, even when major frustrations arise, is a necessity of the professionalism that is expected of a successful clinician.…”

“…Equally important though is emotional intelligence (EQ), especially selfawareness and self-regulationcharacteristics that need to be developed during training and scrupulously maintained throughout one's career. 4 Staying in control, even when major frustrations arise, is a necessity of the professionalism that is expected of a successful clinician. It can also help to avoid complaints and mistakes.…”

Emotional Intelligence and Leadership Development: Implications for Family Medicine Residency Programs

“…EI requires self-discipline, self-efficacy, self-evaluation, and self-criticism, which enhances leadership and job fulfillment [21][22][23]. What's more, through the enrichment of strong relationships with their patient's and colleagues, any physician may be considered a leader.…”

“…Compared to physicians with higher EI those will low EI are less likely to foster empathic connections with their patients and appreciate or make out their emotions [23,24]. EI may facilitate the patient-doctor rapport [22][23][24]. It shapes judgments concerning patient management, encourages self-control in demanding circumstances, and the avoidance of emotionally charged behaviors and decisions.…”

“…Because family physicians may be a patient's first and potentially only contact with a healthcare provider, the development of EI for primary care physicians is essential to the healthcare system. What's more, a high level of EI in family physicians may help in team-based care [22,25].…”