Researchers say a new study of aging Vietnam veterans has helped scientists develop the first detailed map of the brain regions that contribute to emotional intelligence.

Emotional intelligence, or the ability to perceive, control and evaluate emotions, is a concept that has gained prominence over the last three decades. It is now widely recognized as a trait necessary to successfully process emotional information and navigate the social world.

In the study, investigators found that emotional intelligence is an important component of general intelligence, both in terms of behavior and in the brain.

Higher scores on general intelligence tests corresponded significantly with higher performance on measures of emotional intelligence, and many of the same brain regions were found to be important to both.

The study appears in the journal Social Cognitive & Affective Neuroscience.

via Importance of Emotional Intelligence Validated | Psych Central News.