What is a primary goal of integrating social-emotional learning in counseling?

Integrating social-emotional learning (SEL) in counseling primarily aims to enhance emotional intelligence. This is crucial because emotional intelligence encompasses the ability to recognize, understand, and manage one’s emotions as well as the emotions of others. By fostering these skills, students can improve their interpersonal relationships, develop resilience, and navigate social complexities, which are essential for personal and academic success. Enhancing emotional intelligence also plays a significant role in promoting overall mental health and well-being by equipping students with the skills necessary to handle stress, make responsible decisions, and foster empathy toward others.

The focus on emotional intelligence distinguishes it from other aspects such as merely increasing standardized test scores, which do not capture the holistic development of a student. Moreover, while behavioral discipline and reducing academic workloads can be important in specific contexts, they do not fundamentally address the underlying emotional and social skills that SEL aims to cultivate.