More than just emotional intelligence online: introducing "digital emotional intelligence"

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Digital Communication

Background:

• Emotional intelligence (EI) is vital across personal and professional life.
• Digital interactions are increasingly prevalent, necessitating digital competence.
• Understanding EI in digital contexts is fundamental.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conceptualize "digital emotional intelligence" (DEI).
• To propose a model integrating EI and digital competence.
• To examine the relationship between EI facets and digital competence.

Main Methods:

• A self-reported questionnaire was administered to 503 respondents.
• Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to test the proposed model.
• The study differentiated between trait EI and ability EI.

Main Results:

• Trait emotional intelligence positively predicts attitudes toward digital competence.
• Digital ability EI is associated with digital competence skills and knowledge.
• The proposed model provides a framework for understanding DEI.

Conclusions:

• Digital emotional intelligence is a key construct for navigating digital environments.
• Developing digital competence is essential for effective DEI.
• Future research should further explore the components and implications of DEI.