Blog Post 2: Developing emotional intelligence in social skills groups
9 Signs of Low Emotional Intelligence:
Emotional intelligence (sometimes referred to as "emotional quotient" or "EQ") is essential to every aspect of life. In fact, many experts now believe that EQ is more important than IQ in determining overall success in life. As such, having low EQ can negatively impact not only interpersonal relationships but also mental and physical health.
When someone has a low EQ, there are many ways it can present itself. Below are nine typical signs of low emotional EQ.
People with low EQ usually ….
Have to Be 'Right'
You probably know someone who always seems to get into arguments with others. Friends, family, co-workers, and even random strangers find themselves embroiled in disputes with these argumentative individuals.
People with low EQ will often argue a point to death while refusing to listen to what anyone else has to say. Even if you provide them with solid evidence that they should consider a new point of view, they will argue your facts are wrong.They have to win at all costs and find it impossible to simply "agree to disagree."
Are Oblivious to Other People's Feelings
Many people with low EQ are lack awareness of other's feelings. They may be genuinely surprised that a friend or co-worker is angry at them. Not only that, but they get annoyed when others expect them to understand how they are feeling.
Behave Insensitively
For the most part, people with low EQ don't know the right thing to say. They may also fail to comprehend appropriate versus inappropriate timing of saying things. For example, they might say something insensitive after a loss or other emotionally challenging event. If you react to their out-of-line response, they often think you are being overly sensitive. Due to the fact they have difficulty understanding the emotions of others, it's no surprise they are unable to interpret and appropriately respond to the emotional tone and atmosphere.
Blame Others for Their Problems
People with low EQ have little insight into how their emotions might lead to interpersonal problems. The one thing a person with low emotional intelligence typically will not do is hold themselves accountable for their actions. When something goes wrong, their first reaction is to find someone or something else to blame. They might suggest they had no other choice for what they did and that others simply don't understand their situation.
Have Poor Coping Skills
An inability to cope with emotionally-charged situations can be an indicator of low EQ. Strong emotions, whether their own or those of others, are difficult to comprehend for those with low emotional intelligence. They will often walk away from these situations to avoid having to deal with the emotional fallout. Hiding their true emotions is also very common.
Have Emotional Outbursts
The ability to regulate emotions is one of the components of emotional intelligence. People with low EQ often struggle to understand and control their emotions. They might lash out reactively without understanding what they are really feeling or why they are so upset.A person who lacks EQ might also have unexpected emotional outbursts that seem overblown and uncontrollable. The smallest things set them off into a tirade that can last for minutes, even hours.
Struggle With Relationships
People with low EQ often have very few close friends. This is because close friendships require a mutual give-and-take, sharing of emotions, compassion, and emotional support, all characteristics low-EQ individuals typically lack. Instead, people with low EQ often come off as abrasive and unfeeling.
Turn Conversations Toward Themselves
People with low EQ tend to dominate conversations. Even if they are asking questions and appear to be listening, they find a way to shift the conversation back to their needs and interests. They drive topics to their areas of interest and lack sincere curiosity in other’s point of view.