Trait emotional intelligence and decision-related emotions

Although substantial empirical research has emphasized the relevance of emotions in decision-making processes, individual differences in the perception and experience of emotion have been largely overlooked. Here we report research that examines the relationship between trait emotional intelligence (trait EI or trait emotional self-efficacy) and decision-related affect. In Study 1, we obtained a positive relationship between trait El and the deterioration of mood after the recall of a poor real-life decision. In Study 2, we obtained a negative relationship between trait El and negative emotions experienced a few days after a failed negotiation. In addition, trait El was positively associated with affective overprediction. The findings are discussed with reference to behavioural decision research and the need to explore the role of individual differences in this research. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.