When someone has high emotional intelligence (also known as emotional quotient, EI or EQ), that means they have a strong awareness of their own and others' emotions, as well as the ability to manage and regulate those emotions, according to Psychology Today.
Conversely, those with low emotional intelligence may struggle with things like stress, coping skills, relationships, sensitivity and social interactions. In fact, there are a number of social habits that can signal low EQ, according to Dr. Whitley Lassen, Psy.D., MBA, a licensed clinical psychologist and Head of Operations at Willow Health.
Curious to learn more about the four social habits that often show low emotional intelligence, what causes low EQ and how to help someone develop higher EI? Keep reading for more of Dr. Lassen's insights.
One factor that can lead to someone having low emotional intelligence is how EQ was modeled to them as a child.
Additionally, low emotional intelligence can also be related to a "neurodevelopmental difference," such as autism (Autism Spectrum Disorder or ASD) or ADHD. Furthermore, some mental health conditions can make a person come across as emotionally insensitive.
Similarly, if someone who is usually quite emotionally intelligent starts dealing with mental health struggles, their EQ may temporarily falter.
Fortunately, one's EQ is not a permanent state, and it can always be improved (more on how to do that, below).
Related: These 3 Favorite Colors Are Often Linked to Emotional Intelligence, According to a Color Analyst
A Psychologist Says These 4 Social Habits Can Indicate Low Emotional Intelligence
"Sometimes someone feeling emotional pain or anxiety can lack the ability to support or feel for others who are also feeling emotions," she explains. "This can also appear as being less responsive when you’re trying to speak with them, being withdrawn, shutting down in emotional conversations or coming off uninterested."
2. Defensiveness
According to Dr. Lassen, when highly sensitive people get overwhelmed, they tend to come off as defensive—and increased defensiveness can be an indicator of low EQ.
"Someone with low emotional intelligence may be more likely to have challenges with regulating their emotions," Dr. Lassen explains.
4. Lacking interest
"Difficulty maintaining conversations with friends or family or saying no to activities or social engagement because of apathy or lacking interest can be a sign of low emotional intelligence," explains Dr. Lassen.
Related: If You Say These 7 Things Regularly, You Might Be Hyper-Independent, Psychologist Says
In fact, there are many ways she says you can model high EQ to others. For instance:
When you make a mistake, take responsibility for it and acknowledge the other person's feelings.Ask others questions to show curiosity.After a disagreement, calmly discuss what happened and acknowledge the other person's feelings about the situation.Give positive reinforcement whenever they display signs of improved emotional intelligence, such as apologizing or showing curiosity in others."In many cases, working with a mental health professional can further help develop the strategies you need to strengthen EQ," she says.
"Seeking mental health support to overcome depression or anxiety with a professional, whether in-person or virtually, can help you navigate these symptoms or habits and develop tools and strategies to cope," Dr. Lassen states.
Final Takeaways
Emotional intelligence refers to one's awareness and management of their and other people's emotions.
Some social habits can indicate low emotional intelligence. These include reduced empathy, defensiveness, snapping at others and a lack of interest.Several different factors can contribute to someone having a low EQ, such as their childhood, role models, neurodivergence and mental health disorders.Anyone can improve their emotional intelligence. Working with a mental health professional or loved one on strategies to improve EQ can be highly effective.Related: People Who Trust Themselves Do These 7 Things Differently, Psychologist Says
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Dr. Whitley Lassen, Psy.D., MBA, is a licensed clinical psychologist and Head of Operations at Willow Health.Hence then, the article about 4 social habits that show low emotional intelligence according to a psychologist was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
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