Catholic · Emmaus course
The Intelligent Heart: Emotional Intelligence, Virtue, and Healing Presence
Learn emotional intelligence through neuroscience and virtue: understand triggers, regulate responses, and build a grounded, healing presence for others.
With E. Christian Brugger, Ph.D.
- Length
- 1 hr
- Lessons
- 9
- Level
- Advanced
- Version
- Catholic
- Price
- Free
About this course
This 6-week formation course integrates contemporary neuroscience with Catholic wisdom on character to teach how emotionally intelligent presence is developed. Drawing on Daniel Goleman's research, Thomas Aquinas's theology of virtue, and Benedict Groeschel's developmental psychology, participants will explore why emotional patterns formed in childhood remain real—yet malleable. Through guided reflection, regulation strategies, and dialogue with others, you'll learn to recognize your own emotional triggers, practice intentional responses, and develop the grounded presence that makes you a genuine healing force for others. This course is unique in connecting neuroscience (how the brain changes) with virtue tradition (why humans actually transform).
Curriculum
-
Module 1
The Intelligent Heart
- 1.Lesson 1: What Are Emotions For? The Person as Affective Being
- 2.Lesson 2: The Emotional Hijack: Reactivity, Memory, and the Wounded Self
- 3.Lesson 3: Know Thyself: Self-Awareness as the Foundation of Emotional Intelligence
- 4.Lesson 4: Passion's Slaves: Self-Regulation, Temperance, and Freedom
- 5.Lesson 5: The Master Aptitude: Hope, Motivation, and Purposeful Action
- 6.Lesson 6: The Roots of Empathy: Seeing the Other as Person
- 7.Lesson 7: The Social Arts: Emotional Intelligence in Relationship, Community, and Ministry
- 8.Lesson 8: Temperament Is Not Destiny
- 9.Post-Test
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