Exploring emotional intelligence in children using the trait emotional intelligence questionnaire: a systematic review

Measuring psychological constructs in children presents unique challenges, as careful consideration of children’s cognitive and socioemotional development is needed. The Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire-Child Form (TEIQue-CF) was developed within the theoretical underpinnings of trait Emotional Intelligence theory and is predicated on primary aged children. This review aims to systematize the scientific literature on the TEIQue-CF, its corresponding short form, the TEIQue-CSF and the translated versions of these tools to identify the key outcomes predicted by these forms in children aged 8–13 years.

A search was conducted in Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and APA PsycArticles in June 2024. This review was guided by the latest version of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.

Conducted search identified 40 studies that investigated child emotional intelligence measured via TEIQue child forms. The key findings cover several topics related to the emotional aspects of children’s personalities, such as their intra- and interpersonal relationships, school life, cognition, and creativity.

This systematic review revealed that trait Emotional Intelligence measured via the TEIQue child forms provide reliable results and is valid, as it has been linked to key childhood variables. This review also provides guidance for future research on the topic of trait Emotional Intelligence in children by highlighting current research limitations to avoid the likelihood of misleading research findings.