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Better EQ helps cope with peer pressure, bullying

Experts have suggested that developing the Emotional Quotient (EQ) in school children will instil empathy in them, and remove tendencies of bullying.

Studies show that emotional intelligence is emerging as a strong indicator of performance and can be easily enhanced unlike IQ.

Dubai-based author, behavioural coach and instructor Sahar Moussly said temperamant of teachers and students varied. “I’ve conducted several workshops for school teachers and parents here in the UAE for gauging EQ ... what I noticed is that people are getting more open to the ideas and want their emotional intelligence to improve.”

A child with greater EQ or emotional intelligence performs 80 per cent better academically or professionally; and is able to cope with peer pressure and bullying, according to studies.

“Negative emotions are mostly fear, panic and anxiety that is mostly learnt and can have a greater impact on how we deal with people and situations. IQ is important, however with Emotional and Social Intelligence a person has 80 per cent higher chance of performing well — academically and professional. This is because a person would possess the capability of being in control of situations,” she said.

Emotions played a greater role in decision making and it is critical for an individual’s success, and while EQ was distinct from IQ, it complemented it and provided analysis of oneself, providing a set of skills for emotional and leadership development, she said. This includes control of one’s impulses, self-motivation, empathy and social competence amongst others — enabling it to apply to every aspect of life.

IQ is something that all human beings are born with; however, EQ is developed over the years and with social conditioning, Moussly said.

“EQ is measured by means of conducting tests and points are awarded for the answers. Managing EQ teaches children to control their emotions and feelings, and recognise others, as well. They learn to empathise, which in turn puts them in a better position to deal with anger.”

However, Moussly also recommended that before teaching a child about the benefits of having a higher EQ, parents and teachers mastered it.

“There is no point in telling a child not to lose his temper in school, if he goes home to an angry parent. Parents and teachers must be made aware before children, especially in the case of bullying. You must teach a child to have empathy for other children, who will in turn control his anger and tantrums and he will come to terms with his anxiety and fears.”

Transgulf Management Consultants (TGMC), Centre is offering performance-based training for individuals and corporates, and will be introducing Emotional and Social Intelligence (EQ) programmes (in-house and set sessions) for schools and corporates across the GCC.

The workshop is designed to assess and deal with a series of negative emotions to realise one’s full potential. Results have revealed that these skills improve learning, personal drive, interaction and leadership. TGMC will hold an introductory workshop on June 29 in Dubai. The workshop has run in a number of schools in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Registration for the workshop can be done by sending an e-mail to info@lifeinharmony.me.