Definition of EI Though being a comparatively recent concept in sociology, emotional intelligence has already been viewed from a variety of perspectives; as a result, the notion under analysis can be defined in several ways, yet each definition revolves around the ability of an individual to recognize and accept their emotions. For instance, Morrison (2007), in his turn, views the concept of EI in a slightly more specific way, emphasizing the motivational properties of EI. Particularly, the researcher explains that EI is a tool for enhancing the metacognitive processes in exploring one’s emotional makeup, developing the ability to stream impulses the right direction, reduce the threat of developing a depressive mind frame, and fostering the skill of empathy (Morrison, 2007, p. 246). The ability to listen to the respondent, as well as relating to their emotional experiences and empathizing with them is a crucial step in developing EI. Apart from the specified requirement, however, the process of developing and learning to apply it to address the needs of the target population, one must also consider the steps such as the analysis and interpretation of the impacts of non-verbal communication elements (Morrison, 2007). Although often underrated, non-verbal elements of communication serve a set of specific purposes and often turn out to be just as significant as the verbal ones, if not more. As Poulin (2009) explains, listening is one of the basic tools for building a link between the patient and the social worker and, therefore, contributing to the development of emotional intelligence in the former. Traditionally split into several types, such as focused listening and reflective and addictive empathy correspondingly, the specified tools serve as the basis for establishing a strong emotional connection between a social worker and a patient. Once the specified emotional link is created, the premises for developing EI in the patient are set (Poulin, 2009, p. 112). Critical Evaluation of EI As it has been emphasized above, the concept of EI is comparatively young; therefore, it deserves a detailed evaluation. The complexity of the tool under analysis is another reason for the identification of the subject matter and its further application to occur at a relatively slow pace. According to the existing definitions, EI paves the way for a social worker to the complex and delicate world of the patient’s emotions (Morrison, 2007). One must also bear in mind the fact that the social worker is also prone to the disbalance in the EI rates. Particularly, the issue of workplace burnout needs to be addressed. As the existing studies say, a consistent work with patients, especially children, and the unceasing emotional involvement into the progress of the patients, leads to emotional devastation (Poulin, 2009). Therefore, it is crucial for a social worker to make sure that their essential needs are addressed properly. For instance, Morrison (2007) mentions that “self-awareness about how working with children may affect you emotionally and how to seek help” (254) is a crucial step on the way to personal and professional evolution. Moreover, making sure that the social worker has not developed a workplace burnout yet and is capable o