2020 · Paper III · 10 marks

Explain the concept of emotional intelligence with special reference to the three main models of emotional intelligence. How are emotional intelligence applied in administration and governance?

In short

Emotional intelligence is the ability to understand and manage one's own and others' emotions, explained by the ability model (Salovey and Mayer), the trait model and Goleman's mixed model. In administration it aids decision-making, empathetic service delivery and conflict resolution, and can be built through Mission Karmayogi training.

Model answer

Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026

Introduction
Emotional intelligence (EI) is vital for effective governance, enabling public servants to manage emotions, stress, and ethical challenges, thereby improving administrative efficiency and public trust. In an era of complex societal demands, EI helps officials navigate interpersonal dynamics and enhances transparency and responsiveness.
Understanding Emotional Intelligence
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Ethical Importance

EI supports constitutional morality by promoting impartiality, integrity, and accountability in public administration. It helps civil servants uphold ethical standards even under pressure, fostering trust in governance.

Three Main Models of Emotional Intelligence
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Ability Model

Salovey and Mayer’s model treats EI as cognitive abilities to perceive, use, understand, and regulate emotions for better decision-making. It views emotions as valuable information for intellectual growth.

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Mixed Model

Goleman’s model combines emotional abilities with personality traits and competencies; assessed by MSCEIT and Bar-On EQ-i, it informs training like Mission Karmayogi’s behavioural competency framework, which integrates EI for capacity building in public administration.

Application in Administration and Governance
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Public Service Delivery

Empathy enhances responsiveness, exemplified by Andhra Pradesh’s grievance redressal system, where officers’ social skills improve communication and conflict resolution.

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Team Cohesion and Conflict Management

EI fosters teamwork and diffuses conflicts, relevant to Andhra Pradesh’s diverse social fabric, enabling administrators to manage communal tensions through dialogue and perspective-taking.

Way Forward
Institutionalizing EI training and promoting empathy through frameworks like Mission Karmayogi can strengthen governance. Additionally, developing emotional resilience programs and leveraging technology for EI assessment will sustain civil servants’ performance in challenging environments.
Conclusion
EI integration is key to ethical, effective administration and public trust. It equips public servants to handle complex challenges with empathy, integrity, and resilience, enhancing governance outcomes.

This model answer is indicative and the model can make mistakes; please verify key facts independently.

Hand-drawn diagram: Three Models of Emotional Intelligence. Three Models of Emotional Intelligence. Diagram (tree): Three Models of Emotional Intelligence; Models of EI; Ability: Salovey and Mayer, MSCEIT; Trait: emotional self-perceptions; Mixed: Goleman, Bar-On EQ-i
Diagram: Three Models of Emotional Intelligence

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This chapter in the exam

Attitude and Emotional intelligence6 questions

Asked in 3 of 8 sittings since 2008

2008
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2011
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2012
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2016
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2017
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2020
2
2023
2
2025
2

Most tested: Attitude as a determinant of public servant behaviour, including its components and behavioural impact.

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Question from the official APPSC Group-I Mains 2020 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.

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