Trait and Ability Emotional Intelligence in Children With ADHD

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine trait and ability emotional intelligence (EI) in children with ADHD. Method: Forty-one children with ADHD (9-11 years) completed two measures of EI-the Bar-On Emotional Quotient Inventory: Youth Version-short form (EQi:YV-Brief) and the Mayer-Salovey-Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test, Youth Research Version (MSCEIT-YRV). Results: Children with ADHD did not differ on total EI scores from the normative data on either the ability or trait EI measures. However, they scored above the group norms on the MSCEIT-YRV subscale of Managing Emotions and lower on Understanding Emotions. On the EQi:YV-Brief, children with ADHD reported significantly lower Interpersonal and Adaptability EI. Conclusion: Children with ADHD are relatively similar to children without ADHD when examining EI scores. However, there is some variability in the EI measures which should be considered when creating intervention programs.