Emotional intelligence training improves stress regulation and performance in high-stress occupations

In this randomized controlled study (N = 66) in an elite military setting, we compared stress regulation and performance outcomes between soldiers who received emotional intelligence (EI) training (n = 35) and those who received non-EI control training (n = 31). The EI-trained group underwent 15 h of instruction focused on recognizing, understanding, and regulating emotions. When exposed to intense simulated combat stressors, EI-trained participants showed significantly lower biological stress levels compared to controls and superior performance across multiple domains: shooting accuracy (94.1% vs. 51.6%, p < .001), memory retention for mission-critical details during stress serials (M = 5.15 vs. M = 3.10 items recalled, p < .001), increased speed and accuracy in complex mathematical calculations under pressure (56% vs. 19% correct, p < .001), and greater pain tolerance during cold water immersion (trainees persisted 72% longer, M = 50.94 vs. M = 29.08 min, p < .001). These findings highlight the potential of EI training to enhance stress regulation and cognitive and behavioral performance under pressure, offering valuable insights for improving employee well-being and avoiding burnout in high-stress environments.