As the first science-based introduction to the topic, this latest addition to The Psych 101 Series discusses one of the most pivotal new psychological concepts of the twenty-first century: emotional intelligence (EI). Concise yet comprehensive, it provides a critical but balanced account of this new research area, emphasizing what psychologists can learn from the emerging science of EI and how it may help treat mental illness and delinquency, among other issues. An appropriate text for students and practitioners alike, it presents an even-handed appraisal of EI programs, focusing on both their potential and their limitations.