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Understanding IQ, EQ, SQ, AQ: The Different Types of Intelligence

For centuries, a person’s intelligence or academic abilities were measured with a . The higher a person scored on the test the more academically capable they were perceived to be. Organisations like MENSA were formed with exclusive membership being granted to adults and .

In his challenges the notion that intelligence is a single yardstick on which to measure a person’s abilities and chances of future success. Over the last few decades, other researchers and psychologists have followed suit and also identified alternative ways to measure intelligence that doesn’t only focus on academic abilities.

There are four types of intelligence that are commonly used today: 

  • Intelligence Quotient (IQ)
  • Emotional Quotient (EQ)
  • Social Quotient (SQ)
  • Adversity Quotient (AQ)

In this article, we will look at the different types of intelligence, learn more about whether IQ is more important than EQ, SQ and AQ, and find out how parents can incorporate social and emotional development into their child’s education.

  • Intelligence Quotient (IQ), commonly referred to as IQ, measures a person’s level of comprehension. This is usually assessed through an IQ assessment that tests a person’s ability to solve mathematical equations, memorize things, identify patterns, and recall lessons.
  • Emotional Quotient (EQ), or emotional intelligence, refers to one’s ability to manage their emotions. EQ represents a person’s emotional awareness, interpersonal skills, and character, reflecting their capacity to understand and self-manage their own feelings in positive ways to communicate effectively, empathise with others, overcome challenges, manage conflict, and relieve stress. Emotional intelligence (EQ) is also crucial for effective leadership and maintaining relationships, as it enables individuals to connect with others and navigate complex interpersonal dynamics.
  • Social Quotient (SQ), or social intelligence, refers to one’s ability to interact and communicate with others with empathy and assertiveness. SQ represents a measure of an individual's ability to build and sustain social networks and relationships over time, which includes a person’s ability to build a network of friends and maintain it over a long period of time.
  • Adversity Quotient (AQ) refers to one’s ability to overcome challenges or adversity. AQ determines a person's resilience and ability to persevere through difficult times, influencing their capacity to endure life's challenges without losing mental stability or giving up. When faced with troubles, the adversity Quotient considers who will give up, who will abandon their family, and who will contemplate suicide.

, stated that “as much as 80% of adult success comes from EQ.” His research shows that people who have higher emotional and social intelligence tend to go further in life than those with a high IQ but low EQ or SQ.

Introduction to Intelligence

Intelligence is a complex and multifaceted concept that goes far beyond just academic achievement or test scores. Traditionally, intelligence quotient (IQ) has been used to measure a person’s cognitive ability, focusing on logical reasoning, analytical skills, and problem solving. However, psychologists now recognize that true intelligence encompasses much more than just the ability to memorize facts or solve equations. Emotional quotient (EQ), social quotient (SQ), and adversity quotient (AQ) are equally important in shaping how individuals interact with the world, manage their emotions, and overcome challenges. By understanding these different types of intelligence, we gain valuable insight into how people effectively communicate, build meaningful relationships, and achieve personal growth and professional success. Embracing this broader perspective allows us to appreciate the diverse abilities that contribute to a well-rounded, successful life.

IQ vs EQ, SQ and AQ

Every child is different, with unique learning needs and personalities. Saying that one intelligence type is more important than another is like saying that it is more important to learn math than languages. While each subject is important in schooling, what is most important is that a child builds educational foundations that will serve them through their adult life. The same logic can be applied when comparing different types of intelligence.

It is simply not logical to think that one type of intelligence is more important than another. Developing a child’s social skills, self-awareness, self-control, and coping mechanisms are not only important for learning but also vital to succeed as adults in a workplace environment.

Social and emotional learning in schools

can offer valuable insights into how you approach and personalise their education to develop these key life skills. Whilst most schools focus on improving IQ levels, EQ, SQ, and AQ development is often neglected.

It is equally as important to attend to the emotional well-being of a learner, as to their academic needs. Social and emotional learning should be integrated into a child’s education, as it is integral to their development. Enrolling your child in a social and emotional learning course will help them develop these key life skills and will in turn contribute to them becoming more successful and happier in their adult life. Read our blog on incorporating social and emotional activities into your child's daily routine.

Benefits of social and emotional learning

There are tangible and practical reasons to incorporate social and emotional learning into a child’s education. According to Goleman, incidences of bullying, peer pressure, behavioural problems, violence, and substance abuse are reduced in schools that focus on developing their students' EQ and SQ. This in turn leads to improved academic performance and behaviour.

CambriLearn’s social and emotional learning course

CambriLearn offers an in-depth social-emotional learning course to help children navigate these critical developmental areas. The course is completed online through interactive lessons and group projects to help learners discover constructive ways to process their emotions and interact with others in a respectful way.

In this course, students learn to:

  • Recognise and practice character strengths, like curiosity, persistence, and collaboration.
  • Understand and manage their emotions, like fear and anger.
  • Work in a team; listen to and appreciate each other.
  • Understand the consequences of their actions to others.

Students who have completed the social-emotional learning course with CambriLearn have shown improved:

  • self-esteem and self-awareness,
  • attitude and relationships,
  • ability to cope with social and peer pressures, 
  • learning outcomes.

Read how online schooling is a good option for children and how CambriLearn is rated the best online school in South Africa.

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Understanding IQ, EQ, SQ, AQ: The Different Types of Intelligence

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