EQ versus IQ in the Athletic Training Clinical Environment

• Published in: Athletic therapy today 2007-11, Vol.12 (6), p.39-41
• Main Author: Naylor, Adam
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1078-7895; 1933-2068
• DOI: 10.1123/att.12.6.39

Having great knowledge of the latest approaches to treatment and an encyclopedic knowledge of illness and injury is certainly beneficial to the athletic trainer. Intellectual capabilities clearly relate to clinical proficiency, but emotional intelligence may be far more beneficial to the athletic therapist day in and day out. The term emotional intelligence first appeared in the 1980s and was brought to prominence by Goleman in the 1990s. The concept relates to one's understanding of emotion and the use of this knowledge during interpersonal relationships. Most individuals understand the value of "bedside manner" in terms of a patient's confidence in a clinician and compliance with a treatment plan. Building a trusting and understanding relationship with a patient clearly facilitates treatment success. Furthermore, athletic trainers often work as part of a team, coordinating treatment with other healthcare professionals and communicating with a coaching staff. Hearing what others communicate, understanding their cares and concerns, and monitoring one's own effect are necessary skills. Emotional intelligence is an attribute that improves communication and helps teams to function in a cohesive manner. The purpose of this report is to relate the benefits of emotional intelligence in the world of athletic training.