Within the scientific literature the debate on the theoretical foundation of emotional intelligence (EI) is still heated. One of the most prominent models of EI is that of trait EI or trait emotional self-efficacy, which conceptualizes EI as a constellation of emotional self-perceptions located at the lower levels of personality hierarchies. The present work is aimed to review research supports concerning the utility of trait EI in the prediction of criteria related to health and socioemotional well-being. To address this issue, the authors evaluate 77 peer-reviewed articles that used the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire (TEIQue) as a measure of trait EI. The TEIQue instruments provide the most comprehensive operationalization of EI conceptualized as a trait. Research findings across samples of adults, adolescents, and children are reviewed in separate sections. Potential directions for future research are presented.
