PSYCHOLOGICAL FEATURES OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE IN ADOLESCENTS

Abstract

The article analyzes the theoretical foundations of emotional intelligence and the specifics of its development in adolescents. The essence and concept of "emotional intelligence" as an integral psychological property of personality are clarified. The study establishes that the age-related characteristics inherent in adolescence, associated with the formation of identity and the growth of reflection, create favorable conditions for the development of intrapersonal emotional intelligence, which is expressed in the ability to emotional self-awareness. At the same time, the socio-cultural conditions in which the development of adolescents takes place contribute to the formation of their interpersonal emotional intelligence. The key criteria for the development of emotional intelligence in adolescence are considered, encompassing emotional awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. Based on the analysis of these criteria, three main levels of emotional intelligence in adolescents are identified and characterized: a high level, characterized by a deep understanding of emotions and effective management of them; an average level, reflecting a sufficient ability for emotional self-regulation and understanding of others; and a low level, associated with difficulties in awareness and control of emotions, as well as in interpersonal interaction. Attention is focused on the fact that the modern life of a teenager is rich and multifaceted, including the performance of numerous social roles in various circumstances. Constant interaction with a large number of people, including peers, friends, parents, teachers, and other significant individuals, objectively requires adolescents to have a developed ability to find common ground, effectively resolve conflict situations, establish constructive communication, and accurately understand the emotional state of their interlocutors, activity partners, friends, and loved ones. Adolescence is marked by significant and intensive changes not only in the emotional sphere but also in the intellectual and motivational spheres, which necessitates a particular need for professional psychological support, timely correction of possible deviations, and targeted development of emotional intelligence as an important component of personal growth and social adaptation.