As the `century of psychology' draws to a close, one of its more recent discoveries may turn out to be one of the most important. Research carried out over the past 20 years or so, strongly suggests that scientifically measured `emotional' intelligence (or emotional literacy) is a better predictor of `success' in life than traditional IQ tests.

As Dr. Antonio dos Santos, clinical psychologist at Ashton Associates points out, emotional intelligence, which can be summed up as `common sense', or even `street smarts', is a vital survival tool. It helps explain, for instance, why a brilliant intellectual may flounder, while the less talented fare surprisingly well in life. The implications of this new approach are especially important today, adds Dr. Santos, where anti-social, or even violent behaviour, depression (especially among the young) and addiction is on the increase -- in Bermuda, as elsewhere.

Having attended this summer's American Psychological Association Conference where this relatively new branch of scientific research was addressed, he says: "This whole concept of emotional intelligence is really beginning to fly, because it gives us a completely new way of looking at why some people succeed and lead happy lives -- and others do not.

"The good news,'' he comments, "is that help is at hand! There is now a scientific test, based on 17 years of research and known as `EQ' (emotional quotient) as opposed to IQ (intelligence quotient). I have been administering this test in Bermuda and I think it's important for people to realise that a person's `EQ' can be improved. So, after we have done the test to find out what sort of level we are dealing with, we set up a plan of action. Depending on the level, emotional intelligence can be raised through group sessions, where certain skills are taught or, in some cases, individual psychotherapy is advisable.'' Dramatic advances in scientific studies of this hitherto neglected aspect of psychology have been made possible by new brain-imaging technologies. The findings have challenged conventional views on cognitive intelligence (IQ) which basically argues that a person's ability and success depends largely on the genetic lottery. Dr. Santos, who has spent much of his career in training medical and social workers, believes that this scientifically revised opinion will not only be of enormous interest in the field of psychology, but also to the Island's educators, company employers and personnel managers.

One of the recurring problems in the workplace, he says, is when a person is hired on the strength of `paper' qualifications. "Then it turns out that he is absolutely clueless in dealing with people and the everyday crises that can crop up in any company. So this test can also be very useful in making evaluations of personnel, especially those who have to deal in very critical aspects of people's lives, or people dealing with large sums of money -- other people's money. This could affect people like bank workers, Police, teachers, hospital workers, and so on. It's obviously not desirable to have people who are emotionally unstable, taking care of your life in a hospital, or investing your money!'' He points out that trauma can also seriously delay emotional growth. "So many people block out their feelings and internalise their shock or pain. They tend to express that blockage by turning to such things as over-eating, alcohol, drugs and generally indulge in self-destructive behaviour.'' Brazilian-born Dr. Santos, who is a multilingual psychologist who speaks English, Spanish and Portuguese, has lectured extensively in North and South America and Europe, and is the author of several books and papers on psychology, philosophy and spirituality.

At present, he is devoting an increasing amount of his professional time to working with teenagers to raise levels of emotional intelligence. "You may have an outstandingly bright kid, for example, who goes off to university and finds it very hard to cope with being away from home for the first time. This can be especially difficult for those who are `loners', who find it hard to make friends with peers and teachers. And, if you can't make friends, you can explode with loneliness. People who are `emotionally intelligent' have better social and communication skills and know how to handle stress. It is a fact, too, that when a person has worked to raise their EQ, they become much happier and that appears to be reflected in their grades. When a person is emotionally unwell, they tend to be less productive.'' While some children are tested as young as 12 years of age, Dr. Santos believes that 14 is perhaps the most suitable time for early evaluation. "It is good if EQ problems can be caught -- and treated -- as soon as possible.

Some people never develop the ability to handle life's stresses. They're not crazy in any way, or stupid, or necessarily hurting other people intentionally. Sometimes, they seem to have no real sense of reality, i.e.

common sense! With help, they can become healthy internally -- and then go on to pursue their dreams and to live happy lives.'' Dr. Antonio Dos Santos