Current theoretical approaches to emotional creativity

Abstract

Emotional creativity represents the ability of individuals to experience and express emotions
in an original, authentic, and effective manner. In recent decades, this concept has become
an important topic in psychological research, as it provides an integrative perspective on the
relationship between cognitive, emotional, and creative processes. The aim of the present
paper is to analyze the main contemporary theoretical approaches to emotional creativity
and to highlight their implications for understanding psychological functioning. The
methodology used consists of a narrative review of the literature, based on relevant studies
and theoretical works in the field of creativity psychology and emotional intelligence. The
main theoretical models explaining emotional creativity are discussed, particularly the
conceptual framework proposed by Averill, which defines this construct through three
fundamental components: novelty, authenticity, and emotional effectiveness. Additionally,
the relationships between emotional creativity, emotional intelligence, personality traits, and
emotion regulation strategies are analyzed. The literature indicates that individuals with high
levels of emotional creativity demonstrate greater adaptability in complex situations as well
as increased emotional flexibility. In conclusion, emotional creativity represents an
important multidimensional construct for understanding psychological adaptation and
emotional processes.