Browse

Journals By Subject

Life Sciences, Agriculture & Food
Chemistry
Medicine & Health
Materials Science
Mathematics & Physics
Electrical & Computer Science
Earth, Energy & Environment
Architecture & Civil Engineering
Education
Economics & Management
Humanities & Social Sciences
Multidisciplinary

Books

Publish Conference Abstract Books
Upcoming Conference Abstract Books
Published Conference Abstract Books
Publish Your Books
Upcoming Books
Published Books

Proceedings

Events

Events
Five Types of Conference Publications

Join

Join the Editorial Board
Become a Reviewer

Information

For Authors
For Reviewers
For Editors
For Conference Organizers
For Librarians
Article Processing Charges
Special Issue Guidelines
Editorial Process
Manuscript Transfers
Peer Review at SciencePG
Open Access
Copyright and License
Ethical Guidelines
Research Article | | Peer-Reviewed

Pilot Research for the Assessment of Neuroanatomical Correlates in Relation to Brain Talents Identified Through the Six Seconds Emotional Intelligence Assessment

Iannoccari Giuseppe Alfredo*,  Cariani Claudia Tania,  Domenico Rega,  Fariselli Lorenzo,  Iseppato Ilaria
Published in Psychology and Behavioral Sciences (Volume 13, Issue 2)
Received: 19 January 2024    Accepted: 5 February 2024    Published: 2 April 2024
Views:       Downloads:
Download PDF
Abstract

The current research is centered on investigating the neurophysiological correlates associated with various talents, with the goal of determining whether specific brain areas are activated during the expression of these talents. The study specifically investigates individuals with different occupational roles, distinguishing between social/healthcare and non-healthcare (administrative) positions. The research was conducted in three phases. The initial phase involved the selection of 60 employees from the Piccola Opera Caritas of Giulianova. Participants were administered the Brain Talent Profile questionnaire to gather information about their talents. The second phase focused on identifying neuroanatomical correlates using the BrainBit helmet. Participants engage in various brief activities while wearing the EEG headband, suitable for both neurofeedback and brain activity measurements. The final phase was dedicated to analyze the data collected through the Brain Brief Profile, which comprises three domains: Perception, Evaluation, and Action. Our hypothesis suggests significant correlations between participants' talents and recorded EEG patterns. To validate this hypothesis, the outcomes derived from the Social and Emotional Intelligence (SEI) test were compared with EEG measurements. This research holds potential applications in the recruitment phase, providing insights into the neurological basis of talents in prospective employees. It may offer advantages in training initiatives dedicated to enhancing talents and skills across diverse organizational roles. The emphasis on various job roles, particularly in the social/healthcare and administrative sectors, strengthens the practical relevance of the study for talent assessment and development within organizational contexts. In summary, our research aims to bridge the gap between talents and neurophysiological correlates, with potential implications for recruitment and training strategies within organizational settings.

Published in Psychology and Behavioral Sciences (Volume 13, Issue 2)
DOI 10.11648/j.pbs.20241302.12
Page(s) 17-31
Creative Commons

This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.

Copyright

Copyright © The Author(s), 2024. Published by Science Publishing Group
Previous article
Keywords

Talent, Organizational Role, Brain Mapping, EEG, Cognitive Skills

1. Introduction
Effectively managing talent has become crucial for organizations worldwide, serving as a key tool to gain a competitive advantage through human capital
[1, 2]
. While the term 'talent' universally denotes a special natural ability or aptitude that sets individuals apart, the ongoing discourse among scholars centers on the dichotomy of innate versus acquired talent
[3-7]
. This critical debate not only shapes our understanding of the origin and development of talents but also underscores the complexity surrounding their definition and measurement in various fields. Recent theories propose a more nuanced perspective, suggesting that talents emerge through a complex interaction between inherent predispositions and environmental factors, introducing a continuum range from innate to acquired
[8-10]
.
The recognition of talents is closely tied to identifying strengths, defined as recurring patterns of thought, feeling, or behavior that can be productively applied
[11, 12]
. The correlation between brain activity and talents has been a subject of investigation, particularly with the advent of modern neuroscience techniques like EEG (Electroencephalogram) and fMRI (functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
[13]
. The human brain, comprised of over 100 billion neurons, communicates through electrical signals, giving rise to brain waves of different frequencies
[14]
. EEG, based on these frequencies, has been employed to quantify human performance in cognitive tasks
[15]
.
EEG has been extensively used to measure brain activity during various activities, including physical, artistic, and creative endeavors
[16-20]
. Notably, differences in EEG power have been observed in creative subjects, with a focus on frontal brain areas, providing insights into the neural basis of talents such as divergent thinking, poetry composition, and musical improvisation
[21-24]
. EEG alpha power has been identified as particularly sensitive to creativity-related demands such as dance or verbal creativity
[25-27]
. Studies comparing EEG signals between artists and non-artists further emphasise the distinct neural patterns associated with creative activities
[28]
.
The research presented aims to answer the following questions: Can neuroscience give us an indication of where our talents/abilities reside in the brain? Does expressing a talent mean activating a specific area of our brain? Our hypothesis is that there are significant correlations between the talents acted by the subjects and the EEG tracks. We chose to compare results obtained by the SEI test and the EEG measurements. The study concentrated on subject belonging to different working roles: the social/healthcare and non-healthcare (or administrative) workers. We believe this could be a useful tool both in the recruitment phase and in the training activities aimed at increasing talents/skills in subjects’ employees in organizational roles.
2. Materials and Methods

2.1. The Brain Talent Profile, SEI

This test is grounded in the Six Seconds model of Emotional Intelligence, a tripartite model developed in 1997 by Peter Salovey) and John Mayer
[29]
. One way to assess the reliability of a scale (a set of items in a questionnaire) is to calculate the internal consistency of the factors within it. Internal consistency measures how closely the items included in the scale are related to each other. Cronbach's Alpha coefficient was also used to calculate the reliability of the factors comprising the SEI. This index ranges from -1 to +1, and a coefficient with a positive value greater than 0.6 is considered statistically reliable in research.

2.2. Neuroanatomical Correlates Detection

Participants were asked to engage in various brief activities, such as watching a video and responding to questions, while performing these activities, they wore an EEG headband, suitable for both neurofeedback and brain activity measurements, in medical and psychological contexts. To improve conductivity and maintain high hygiene standards, a sponge soaked in a solution of water and alcohol was used between each electrode and the scalp. After mounting the headband and confirming that the signal was clear with no interference due to excessive hair or a sebum-rich scalp at the electrode sites, which could compromise signal detection, participants were instructed to relax, sit comfortably, and prepare for the beginning of the activities. The instrument has four channels, dry electrodes, a sampling frequency of 250 Hz, and a voltage range of ±0.4 V. It collects data that can be converted and interpreted using the BrainBit Inc. software, Version 2.2.15. The analysis was conducted by cross-referencing the Brain Brief Profile (BT) profiles with the responses to the questions and EEG measurements for each subject. During the research, the Brain Talent Profile was employed, along with three custom-prepared activities and the BrainBit EEG signal detection headband.

2.3. Experimental Operations

The research activities took place on March 14 and 15, 2022, at Villa Fiorita, a location made available by the Piccola Opera Charitas Foundation of Giulianova. The experimental operations were conducted in a room with a closed door, equipped with two workstations, tables, and chairs, to allow the four researchers to conduct EEG readings during the administration of the three tasks described earlier. Participants entered the room at scheduled times, and each operation on a participant lasted for about twenty minutes. To capture EEG readings, the BrainBit headset was applied to each subject. Participants were encouraged to respond calmly to the tasks and not to worry about their answers. The answers were confidential and could not be disclosed externally except in anonymous aggregate form. Each response had a pre-set time of three minutes, specifically designed to record adequate brain electrical activity and promote the expression of talents that the experimental tasks aimed to elicit.

2.4. Data Analysis

Descriptive and inferential analyses were conducted to outline the demographic and professional profiles of the participants and investigate any relationships between the use of talents in the three macro areas during task completion and the electrocortical activation of the temporal or occipital lobes of the two hemispheres. These analyses were carried out using the Jamovi software
[30]
.
3. Results
The research unfolded in three phases: the first involved subject sample selection and Brain Talent Profile questionnaire administration; the second focused on detecting neuroanatomical correlates using the BrainBit helmet, and the third encompassed data analysis and report preparation. The Brain Brief Profile comprises three areas: Perception, Evaluation, and Action. Perception involves integrating cognitive and emotional information, Evaluation assesses the balance between risks and opportunities, and Action explores the motivation balance between short and long-term goals. Each area is subdivided into two parts, namely cognitive or emotional for Perception, reflective or innovative for Evaluation, and practical or idealistic for Action. The workflow of the research is presented in Figure 1.
Figure 1. Workflow of the project.

3.1. Phase 1

3.1.1. Sample Selection and Characterization Based on Age, Gender, Education, Working Role

The research involved 60 employees of the Piccola Opera Caritas of Giulianova (TE) (hereinafter FPOC) of age, sex and mixed professions. The sample is made up of people aged 22 to 63, with an average age of 43 (Figure 2A). The subjects who participated in the research were almost equally male and female, with a slight prevalence of women (Figure 2B). The level of education of the sample is quite high: more than 55% have a university degree, while only 10.6% have attended compulsory school (Figure 2C). The population is perfectly heterogeneous, evenly divided into Non Healthcare workers and Healthcare workers. The majority of graduates work in the healthcare sector, while in the Non-Healthcare area, there are mainly individuals with a diploma (Figure 2D).

3.1.2. Talent Assessment Using the Sei Questionnaire

Subsequently, each participant was presented with the SEI questionnaire, from which it was possible to compile descriptive statistics on the detected profiles (Brain Talent Profile).
From the statistical analysis of contingency between the Roles and the Talents, for each question, no meaningful values have emerged that can justify the hypothesis that there is a relation between the two variables (χ2 between 0.5 and 1,4 and p values >0.1), (Figure 3, Table A1).
The first part of the analysis, the socio-demographic descriptive data of the sample and the contingency relationships between the variables Education and Roles cross-referenced with the various Talents, did not reveal any evidence suggesting that the subjects had distinctive characteristics regarding roles they held.
Figure 2. Sample selection and characterization. A) sample distribution by age; B) gender distribution within the sample; C) Education level; D) working role vs education level.
Figure 3. Percent of Talent Quals distribuition. NC= Not classified, HC= Healthcare Workers, NHC= NON Healthcare Workers.

3.2. Phases 2 and 3

Evidence of Neurophysiological Correlates, and Data Analysis
In this section we analyzed the neurophysiological correlates of the subjects in the sample while they were engaged in the three activities.
Activity 1: perception
The first activity is divided into three tasks and designed to bring out the talents belonging to the macro area of Perception. The exercise is structured to discern whether subjects are utilising skills from the Rational or Emotional Perception clusters.
Task 1.0 Viewing of a television commercials of a car brand, where the protagonist had the lion’s head. From the Analysis of the Variance between the activation of the four waves, in the temporal and occipital lobes and between the right and left hemispheres, have emerged clue values for a significant difference in brain activation of subjects operating in the non Healthcare workers and Healthcare workers. In particular, significant difference in hemispheres asymmetry in the activation of the four waves was observed (p. < 0.10), which could mean a different electrical brain pattern among subjects in different occupational areas (Figure 4A, 4D).
Task 1.1 Question answering. Detection of correlates took place while the subjects were filling out the question "What impressed you most, after viewing the first video?”. From this analysis, no values emerged that could suggest a significant difference between the roles of Healthcare and Non Healthcare workers, or in brain activation between the 59% of the subjects who expressed a talent Rational compared to 31% of the subjects who expressed themselves in an emotional manner, (Figures 4B, 4F, Figure A1). However, there was a small significant difference in the asymmetry between the hemispheres regarding the activation of theta waves (p. 0,68) in Rational subjects, circumstance that could mean a different electrical arrangement of the brain between subjects who express themselves with different talents (Figure 4E). Incidentally, Theta waves are activated during the state of deep sleep, but if they appear with certain intensity during wakefulness, they are a sign of empathy and openness, to unconscious processes for solving problems. In this case, the viewing of the fantastic film could have induced a brain state of this type.
Task 1.2 Question answering. Detection of correlates took place while the subjects were filling out the answer to the question: how would you describe this spot with a sentence? From the statistical analysis no values emerged that could suggest a significant difference between the roles of Healthcare and Non Healthcare workers in brain activation among 56% of the subjects who expressed a talent Rationally compared to 35% of the subjects who expressed in an Emotional way, while 9% was not clearly defined in one of the two categories (Figures 4C, 4G, Figure A2).
Figure 4. Perception. Measurement of the four waves, in the temporal and occipital lobes, and hemispheres asymmetry. Activity 1: perception, Task 1.0 Viewing of a television commercials of a car brand, where the protagonist had the lion’s head (A, D); Task 1.1 Answering to the question: what impressed you most, after viewing the first video? (B, F); Task 1.2 Question answering: how would you describe this spot with a sentence? (C, G). Asymmetry of theta waves (E).
Activity 2: evaluation
The second activity is tailored to unveil skills within the Evaluation macro-area, specifically assessing whether the individual evaluates the situation in an Innovative or Reflective manner.
Task 2.0 Watching a video in which the protagonist finds themself stranded on Mars in a difficult situation.
The analysis of this task revealed indicative values for a significant difference in the brain activation of individuals working in the Social and Health and Administrative fields. In particular, it was observed a significant difference (p. < 0.10) in the occipital lobes with high activation in the right cerebral hemisphere, for all four electrical waves (Figure 5A, 5D, Figure A3). This circumstance could indicate a different electrical arrangement in the brains of individuals working in different occupational areas, particularly higher in the Social and Health role when involved in tasks representing critical situations. The reported activation of the occipital lobe may be related to the dominance of the visual modality, which predominantly activates these cortical areas. However, it remains not clear whether this activation is due to the characteristics of the individuals involved or if the role has somehow accentuated these characteristics compared to the Administrative role.
Figure 5. Evaluation. Measurement of the four waves, in the temporal and occipital lobes, and hemispheres asymmetry. Activity 2: evaluation, Task 2.0 Watching a video in which the protagonist finds themself stranded on Mars in a difficult situation (A, D); Task 2.1 Answering to the question: How do you handle this situation? (B, F); Task 2.2 Answering to the question: How did you feel in this exercise? (C, G). Electrical activity of the right temporal lobe hemisphere (E).
Task 2.1 Question answering.
The assessment of the correlates took place while the subjects were engaged in answering the question "How do you handle this situation?" after viewing the second video. From the Analysis of Variance between the activation of the four waves in the temporal and occipital lobes and between the right and left hemispheres, no values emerged that could suggest a significant difference between the Social and Health and Administrative roles or in brain activation between the 40.4% of subjects who expressed a Reflective talent compared to the 26.3% of subjects who expressed themselves in an Innovative manner (Figure 5B, 5F, Figure A4). However, significant findings did emerge in terms of asymmetry between the cerebral hemispheres in the group consisting of 20 subjects (33.3%) for whom it was not possible to assign them to either of the two predefined categories (Reflective/Innovative) (Figure 5B). This group of 20 subjects comprises 14 females (8 in the Administrative role and 6 in the Social and Health role) and 6 males (2 in the Administrative role and 4 in the Social and Health role). The 6 males range in age from 25 to 50 years, while the ages of the females are distributed between 30 and 62 years.
Task 2.2 Question answering. The assessment of the correlates took place while the subjects were engaged in answering the question "How did you feel in this exercise?", after viewing the second video and responding to question 2.1. From the Analysis of Variance between the activation of the four waves in the temporal and occipital lobes and between the right and left hemispheres in relation to Talents, values emerged that could suggest a significant difference in brain activation between the 40.4% of subjects who expressed a Reflective talent and the remaining 26.3% of subjects who expressed themselves in an Innovative manner, and 33% who were not assigned to any category (Figure 5C, G). The Reflective individuals showed greater activation of three out of the four waves (excluding Delta, a circumstance not explainable based on the available data) in the temporal lobe of the right hemisphere (as inferred from the positive sign of the mean indicating the right hemisphere, while the negative sign is related to the left hemisphere (Figure 5E).
Figure 6. Action. Measurement of the four waves, in the temporal and occipital lobes, and hemispheres asymmetry. Task 3.0 reading a case. The subjects were engaged in reading an episode presenting a situation in which he/she must decide what to do regarding an incident that puts them in conflict between reporting an employee who has embezzled money from the company or keeping it silent (A, D); Answering to the question: what do you do, after reading the passage describing a critical situation? (B, F). Task 3.2 Answering to the question: and for what reasons?" after reading the passage describing a critical situation and responding to question 3.1 (C, F). Electrical activity of the right occipital lobe hemisphere (E).
Activity 3: action
The third activity of the research delves into the “Action” area, focusing on identifying which areas of practical or idealistic talents individuals deploy when taking action. This segment comprises three tasks to explore different facets of participants’ action-oriented skills.
Task 3.0 reading a scenario involving a conflict situation. The subjects were engaged in reading an episode presenting a situation in which he/she must decide what to do regarding an incident that puts them in conflict between reporting an employee who has embezzled money from the company or keeping it silent. Notably, during this task, distinct values emerged in the brain activation patterns of subjects in Administrative and Social/Health fields. Significant differences in the right cerebral hemisphere were observed across all four electrical waves (p < 0.10), suggesting a potential variation in the electrical arrangement of the brain based on occupational roles. This disparity was particularly pronounced in individuals with roles in Social and Health settings when confronted with decision-making tasks in conflict situations (Figure 6A, 6D).
Task 3.1 Question answering. The subjects were engaged in answering the question "What do you do?", after reading the passage describing a critical situation. From the analysis values emerged that could suggest a significant difference in brain activation among the 52.6% of subjects expressing a Practical talent, compared to the 33.3% expressing an Idealistic talent, and the 14% who were not clearly classified into either category. In particular, the analyses highlight that subjects expressing a Practical talent exhibit greater, statistically significant (p<0.01) activation in the occipital lobe, with higher activation in the right hemisphere (as inferred from the positive sign of the mean indicating the right hemisphere, while the negative sign is related to the left hemisphere) in all four electrical waves (Figure 6E). There is also a unique observation related to the activation of Delta waves in the parietal lobe in subjects classified as "unclassified," which could be explained by a brain configuration associated with deeper and more open problem-solving thinking (Figure 6B, 6F).
Task 3.2 Question answering. The subjects were engaged in answering the question "And for what reasons?" after reading the passage describing a critical situation and responding to question 3.1. The data analysis revealed values that could suggest a significant difference in brain activation among subjects expressing a Practical or Idealistic talent, or were not clearly classified into either category (Figure 6C, 6F). In particular, subjects expressing a Practical talent exhibit greater activation in the occipital lobe, with higher activation in the right hemisphere (Figure 6E). There is also a unique observation related to the activation of Delta waves in the parietal lobe in subjects classified as "unclassified," similar to the findings in question 3.1.
4. Conclusions
The present research successfully addressed the initial question that prompted the study: whether different neurophysiological correlates are associated with the enactment of various talents. Two hypotheses were explored: the “null” hypothesis positing no differences in brain activation across different talents, indicating no significant distinctions in EEG patterns regardless of the task or talent. Conversely, the “alternative” hypothesis advocates that the expression of diverse talents would trigger distinct electrocortical patterns.
The research project was meticulously structured, enabling sample subjects to demonstrate a spectrum of talents within six distinct macro areas. This was achieved through their responses to stimulus tasks designed to elicit varied mental patterns, allowing for a comprehensive examination of potential differences.
The analysis of responses has uncovered profiles that align with the alternative hypothesis, indicating that the execution of specific talents elicits distinct electrocortical patterns. Particularly, in the first task involving watching a car brand’s TV commercial with a protagonist having a lion’s head, asymmetrical activation between cerebral hemispheres was noted, with greater activation in the right occipital lobe. This disparity was more pronounced in the group of subjects in the Social and Health care role compared to those in the Administrative role.
Similarly, a notable difference was observed during the second task involving the viewing of a video (depicting an astronaut stranded on Mars, after a space mission) and in the third task, which involved reading a passage where subjects had to decide how to respond to a conflict situation involving an employee stealing money from the company. These three tasks, designed to activate different talents in the areas of Perception, Processing, and Action, produced distinct electrocortical patterns as anticipated by the research objectives.
An intriguing observation arose from the results of task 2.1, where 20 subjects were not classified into “Reflective” or “Innovative” talent categories. These subjects exhibited significant activation in the right temporal lobe. Qualitative analysis of their responses uncovered an inclination towards indecision, favoring explicit displays of emotional states experienced in that situation. Emotional states are known to be influenced by complex neural networks that impact brain functions. In this instance, there was substantial activation in the right hemisphere, prompting an intriguing question: Can certain emotional states create a form of brain short-circuit that inhibits decision-making?
One last finding concerns the correlation that emerged in tasks 3.1 and 3.2 (answering the questions "What do you do?" and "For what reasons?" related to the theft of money from the company's cash registers) with the EEG patterns of the right occipital lobe in the groups of Administratives who exhibited a Practical talent, possibly more inclined to make normative decisions without the intrusion of emotional or idealistic motives.
In conclusion, despite the pilot nature of the study and the need for refinement in certain broad-brush aspects for future investigations, the obtained results provide confidence in rejecting the null hypothesis. The alternative hypothesis is supported, instead, indicating clear correlations between EEG patterns and the talents exerted by the subjects.
5. Discussion
Effective job performance relies not only on skills and goodwill but also on having the right tools. Expecting professionals to rely solely on goodwill is impractical in today's complex work environments. Predisposition, talent, and experience are essential pillars for success. Beyond physical tools, “soft skills” are crucial differentiators, shaping how individuals approach their roles. Imagine a healthcare professional lacking communication and empathy or an administrative worker with creativity but lacking analytical skills – the potential outcomes in their respective roles would vary significantly. Developing and understanding these mental and character tools is crucial for success in specific roles. Ensuring that individuals are well-equipped with the necessary skills and attributes not only benefits their own professional growth but also serves as a valuable contribution to the well-being of all stakeholders involved.
The present research was carried out within and on behalf of the Piccola Opera Charitas Foundation of Giulianova (hereinafter FPOC) - director: Domenico Rega - and Six Seconds Italy - director: Lorenzo Fariselli, and it originated from the idea of Tania Cariani, EQ (Emotional Quotient) Practitioner and Assessor. It should be considered a pilot study due to several conditions that characterized the research sample, the available measurement tools, and, most importantly, the research hypotheses aimed at verifying if there is a relationship between neurophysiological patterns and "talents' ' exhibited in specific situations. Although the study maintained an exploratory approach, it successfully outlined an indicative profile of the experimental variables and offered initial insights into the research questions. Notably, the study achieved a reliable differentiation of talents among the 60 subjects in the sample, considering factors such as roles, age, and education. Additionally, it identified neurophysiological patterns, revealing how subjects exhibited distinct brain electrical activation in response to specific tasks based on both their talents and roles. The prime condition that enabled the research to be carried out was the availability, support, and cooperation of the Piccola Opera Charitas Foundation in Giulianova. They facilitated the recruitment of the 60 sample subjects with specific socio-demographic characteristics necessary for the research analysis; provided an appropriate setting for the research, by making EEG recording spaces available for two workstations staffed by four researchers. They scheduled and coordinated the 60 research subjects' appointments with researchers for the neurophysiological pattern data collection, all within a short timeframe of just one and a half days. Moreover, they provided timely and motivated cooperation of the sample subjects during the data collection operations; hospitality and cordial reception provided by the Foundation's staff to the researchers, along with continuous support throughout the research activities. In addition to these strengths, which are not all mentioned here due to space constraints, there were other factors that contributed to the successful execution of the research, such as the availability of state-of-the-art portable EEG equipment provided by the “Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore” in Milan and the University of Pavia, as well as the expertise of the research team in data collection and neurophysiological pattern analysis, which were essential to completing such a complex scientific endeavour.
Acknowledging the positive aspects highlighted, future research could benefit from considerations beyond the pilot study. The utilization of more advanced electroencephalographic equipment, featuring 32 or 64 channels, in collaboration with university laboratories, could enhance neurophysiological pattern recordings during cognitive tasks. Doubling the sample size would contribute to greater stability and interpretability of observed variations. Implementing a “double assessment control group” design, incorporating pre and post-assessments, would capture changes resulting from specific intervention protocols applied to the experimental group. This approach, involving practical and visual activities, not only aids in mapping brain areas related to talents but also detects changes arising from experimental interventions.
The obtained findings offer encouragement for additional research, suggesting the potential for future solid evidence. This evidence could prove valuable in recruiting individuals for diverse job roles and assessing the effectiveness of training activities aimed at enhancing competencies, especially in critical organizational roles.
Author Contributions
All authors made a substantial, direct and intellectual contribution to the completion of this research.
Acknowledgments
We thank Carmela Irene for assistance in manuscript preparation. Piccola Opera Charitas Foundation in Giulianova for hosting the research spaces.
Abbreviations
EEG: Electroencephalogram
fMRI functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging
FPOC: Piccola Opera Charitas Foundation of Giulianova
EQ: Emotional Quotient
Conflict of Interest
The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
Appendix
Figure A1. Measurement of the four waves, in the central and occipital lobes, and hemispheres asymmetry. Task 1.1 Rational vs Emotional.
Table A1. Statistical analysis of contingency between the Roles and the Talent.

Task

Talent

Working Role

Statistical Analysis

0, 1, 2

% NHC worker

[1]

% HC worker

[2]

χ2

p

0 NC=8,8 %

71

29

1,46

0,5

1.1

1 Rational =56,6%

47

53

Emotional 2=31,6%

47

53

0 NC =8,8%

71

29

1,46

0,5

1.2

1 Rational=56,1%

47

53

2 Emotional =35,1%

48

52

0= NC 33%

50

50

0,96

0,619

2.1

1= Reflective 40,4%

44

56

2= Innovative 26,3%

60

40

0= NC 33,3%

50

50

0,476

0,788

2.2

1 Reflective= 45,6%

46

54

2 Innovative= 21,1%

58

42

0= NC 14%

60

40

0,533

0,766

3.1

Practical 1= 52,6%

47

53

Idealist 2= 33,3%

50

50

0= NC 14%

60

40

0,533

0,766

3.2

1= Practical 52,6%

47

53

2= Idealist 33,3%

50

50
Figure A2. Measurement of the four waves, in the central and occipital lobes, and hemispheres asymmetry. Task 1.2 Rational vs Emotional.
Figure A3. Measurement of the four waves, in the central and occipital lobes, and hemispheres asymmetry. Task 2.0 Health care vs Administrative workers.
Figure A4. Measurement of the four waves, in the central and occipital lobes, and hemispheres asymmetry. Task 2.1 Reflective vs Intuitive.
References
[1] Collings, D. G., & Mellahi, K. (2009). Strategic Talent Management: A Review and Research Agenda. Human Resource Management Review, 19, 304-313.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hrmr.2009.04.001

[2] Tarique I &Schuler R Global talent management: Literature review, integrative frame work, and suggestions for further research. Journal of world business 45(2010) 122-133.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jwb.2009.09.019

[3] Meyers, M., van Woerkom, M., Dries, N. (2013). Innate or acquired? Theoretical considerations and their implications for talent management. Human Resource Management Review, 23(4), 305-321.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hrmr.2013.05.003

[4] Vinkhuyzen AA, van der Sluis S, Posthuma D, Boomsma DI. The heritability of aptitude and exceptional talent across different domains in adolescents and young adults. Behav Genet. 2009 Jul; 39(4): 380-92.

https://doi.org/10.1007/s10519-009-9260-5

[5] Howe MJ, Davidson JW, Sloboda JA. Innate talents: reality or myth? Behav Brain Sci. 1998 Jun; 21(3): 399-407; discussion 407-42.

https://doi.org/10.1017/s0140525x9800123x

[6] Abbott, A., Collins, D., Martindale, R., & Sowerby, K. (2002). Talent identification and development: An academic review. Edinburgh: SportScotland.

[7] Snyder, A. W., Mulcahy, E., Taylor, J. L., Mitchell, D. J., Sachdev, P., & Gandevia, S. C. (2003). Savant-like skills exposed in normal people by surpressing the left fronto- temporal lobe. Journal of Integrative Neuroscience, 2, 149-158.

https://doi.org/10.1142/S0219635203000287

[8] Howard, R. W. (2008). Linking extreme precocity and adult eminence: A study of eight prodigies at international chess. High Ability Studies, 19, 117-130.

https://doi.org/10.1080/13598130802503991

[9] Eichinger, R. W., & Lombardo, M. M. (2004). Learning agility as a prime indicator of potential. Human Resource Planning, 27, 12-16.
[10] Gagné, F. (2004). Transforming gifts into talents: The DMGT as a developmental theory. High Ability Studies, 15, 119-147.
[11] Clifton, D., Buckingham, M. (2001). Now, Discover Your Strengths: The revolutionary Gallup program that shows you how to develop your unique talents and strengths. Gallup Press, Washington.
[12] Buckingham, M. (2005). What great managers do. Harvard Business Review, 83, 70-79.
[13] Beaty RE, Benedek M, Silvia PJ, Schacter DL. Creative Cognition and Brain Network Dynamics. Trends Cogn Sci. 2016 Feb; 20(2): 87-95.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tics.2015.10.004

[14] von Bartheld CS, Bahney J, Herculano-Houzel S. The search for true numbers of neurons and glial cells in the human brain: A review of 150 years of cell counting. J Comp Neurol. 2016 Dec 15; 524(18): 3865-3895.

https://doi.org/10.1002/cne.24040

[15] Teplan M Fundamentals of EEG Measurement. Measurement Science Review, Volume 2, Section 2, 2002.
[16] Ismail LE, Karwowski W. Applications of EEG indices for the quantification of human cognitive performance: A systematic review and bibliometric analysis. PLoS One. 2020 Dec 4; 15(12): e0242857.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0242857

[17] Rahman M, Karwowski W, Fafrowicz M, Hancock PA. Neuroergonomics Applications of Electroencephalography in Physical Activities: A Systematic Review. Front Hum Neurosci. 2019 Jun 4; 13: 182.

https://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2019.00182

[18] [2009a] Fink A, Grabner RH, Benedek M, Reishofer G, Hauswirth V, Fally M, Neuper C, Ebner F, Neubauer AC. The creative brain: investigation of brain activity during creative problem solving by means of EEG and FMRI. Hum Brain Mapp. 2009 Mar; 30(3): 734-48.

https://doi.org/10.1002/hbm.20538

[19] Fang Q, Fang C, Li L, Song Y. Impact of sport training on adaptations in neural functioning and behavioral performance: A scoping review with meta-analysis on EEG research. J Exerc Sci Fit. 2022 Jul; 20(3): 206-215.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jesf.2022.04.001

[20] Scharfen, H-E, Memmert, D. Measurement of cognitive functions in experts and elite athletes: A meta-analytic review. Appl Cognit Psychol. 2019; 33: 843–860.

https://doi.org/10.1002/acp.3526

[21] Fink A, Neubauer AC. EEG alpha oscillations during the performance of verbal creativity tasks: differential effects of sex and verbal intelligence. Int J Psychophysiol. 2006 Oct; 62(1): 46-53.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2006.01.001

[22] Petsche H. Approaches to verbal, visual and musical creativity by EEG coherence analysis. Int J Psychophysiol. 1996 Nov; 24(1-2): 145-59.

https://doi.org/10.1016/s0167-8760(96)00050-5 . PMID: 8978440.

[23] Jaušovec N, Jaušovec K. Working memory training: improving intelligence--changing brain activity. Brain Cogn. 2012 Jul; 79(2): 96-106.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bandc.2012.02.007 . Epub 2012 Apr 2. PMID: 22475577.

[24] Pidgeon LM, Grealy M, Duffy AH, Hay L, McTeague C, Vuletic T, Coyle D, Gilbert SJ. Functional neuroimaging of visual creativity: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Brain Behav. 2016 Aug 11; 6(10): e00540.

https://doi.org/10.1002/brb3.540

[25] Fink A, Graif B, Neubauer AC. Brain correlates underlying creative thinking: EEG alpha activity in professional vs. novice dancers. Neuroimage. 2009 Jul 1; 46(3): 854-62.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuroimage.2009.02.036

[26] Fink A, Benedek M. EEG alpha power and creative ideation. Neurosci Biobehav Rev. 2014 Jul; 44(100): 111-23.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neubiorev.2012.12.002

[27] Razumnikova OM, Tarasova IV, Vol'f NV. Characteristics of cortical activity in persons with high and low verbal creativity: analysis of alpha1,2 rhythms. Zh Vyssh Nerv Deiat Im I P Pavlova. 2009 Sep-Oct; 59(5): 581-6. Russian. PMID: 19947533.
[28] Bhattacharya J, Petsche H. Drawing on mind's canvas: differences in cortical integration patterns between artists and non-artists. Hum Brain Mapp. 2005 Sep; 26(1): 1-14.

https://doi.org/10.1002/hbm.20104

[29] Mayer, J D & Salovey, P (1997). What is emotional intelligence? In P. Salovey & D. Sluyter (Eds). Emotional Development and Emotional Intelligence: Implications for Educators (pp. 3-31). New York: Basic Books.
[30] Jamovi. (2021). The Jamovi project (Version 1.6). [Computer Software].

https://www.jamovi.org

Cite This Article
Plain Text BibTeX RIS

  • APA Style

    Alfredo, I. G., Tania, C. C., Rega, D., Lorenzo, F., Ilaria, I. (2024). Pilot Research for the Assessment of Neuroanatomical Correlates in Relation to Brain Talents Identified Through the Six Seconds Emotional Intelligence Assessment. Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, 13(2), 17-31. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.pbs.20241302.12

    Copy | Download

    ACS Style

    Alfredo, I. G.; Tania, C. C.; Rega, D.; Lorenzo, F.; Ilaria, I. Pilot Research for the Assessment of Neuroanatomical Correlates in Relation to Brain Talents Identified Through the Six Seconds Emotional Intelligence Assessment. Psychol. Behav. Sci. 2024, 13(2), 17-31. doi: 10.11648/j.pbs.20241302.12

    Copy | Download

    AMA Style

    Alfredo IG, Tania CC, Rega D, Lorenzo F, Ilaria I. Pilot Research for the Assessment of Neuroanatomical Correlates in Relation to Brain Talents Identified Through the Six Seconds Emotional Intelligence Assessment. Psychol Behav Sci. 2024;13(2):17-31. doi: 10.11648/j.pbs.20241302.12

    Copy | Download 

  • @article{10.11648/j.pbs.20241302.12,
  author = {Iannoccari Giuseppe Alfredo and Cariani Claudia Tania and Domenico Rega and Fariselli Lorenzo and Iseppato Ilaria},
  title = {Pilot Research for the Assessment of Neuroanatomical Correlates in Relation to Brain Talents Identified Through the Six Seconds Emotional Intelligence Assessment
},
  journal = {Psychology and Behavioral Sciences},
  volume = {13},
  number = {2},
  pages = {17-31},
  doi = {10.11648/j.pbs.20241302.12},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.pbs.20241302.12},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.pbs.20241302.12},
  abstract = {The current research is centered on investigating the neurophysiological correlates associated with various talents, with the goal of determining whether specific brain areas are activated during the expression of these talents. The study specifically investigates individuals with different occupational roles, distinguishing between social/healthcare and non-healthcare (administrative) positions. The research was conducted in three phases. The initial phase involved the selection of 60 employees from the Piccola Opera Caritas of Giulianova. Participants were administered the Brain Talent Profile questionnaire to gather information about their talents. The second phase focused on identifying neuroanatomical correlates using the BrainBit helmet. Participants engage in various brief activities while wearing the EEG headband, suitable for both neurofeedback and brain activity measurements. The final phase was dedicated to analyze the data collected through the Brain Brief Profile, which comprises three domains: Perception, Evaluation, and Action. Our hypothesis suggests significant correlations between participants' talents and recorded EEG patterns. To validate this hypothesis, the outcomes derived from the Social and Emotional Intelligence (SEI) test were compared with EEG measurements. This research holds potential applications in the recruitment phase, providing insights into the neurological basis of talents in prospective employees. It may offer advantages in training initiatives dedicated to enhancing talents and skills across diverse organizational roles. The emphasis on various job roles, particularly in the social/healthcare and administrative sectors, strengthens the practical relevance of the study for talent assessment and development within organizational contexts. In summary, our research aims to bridge the gap between talents and neurophysiological correlates, with potential implications for recruitment and training strategies within organizational settings.
},
 year = {2024}
}

    Copy | Download 

  • TY  - JOUR
T1  - Pilot Research for the Assessment of Neuroanatomical Correlates in Relation to Brain Talents Identified Through the Six Seconds Emotional Intelligence Assessment

AU  - Iannoccari Giuseppe Alfredo
AU  - Cariani Claudia Tania
AU  - Domenico Rega
AU  - Fariselli Lorenzo
AU  - Iseppato Ilaria
Y1  - 2024/04/02
PY  - 2024
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.pbs.20241302.12
DO  - 10.11648/j.pbs.20241302.12
T2  - Psychology and Behavioral Sciences
JF  - Psychology and Behavioral Sciences
JO  - Psychology and Behavioral Sciences
SP  - 17
EP  - 31
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2328-7845
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.pbs.20241302.12
AB  - The current research is centered on investigating the neurophysiological correlates associated with various talents, with the goal of determining whether specific brain areas are activated during the expression of these talents. The study specifically investigates individuals with different occupational roles, distinguishing between social/healthcare and non-healthcare (administrative) positions. The research was conducted in three phases. The initial phase involved the selection of 60 employees from the Piccola Opera Caritas of Giulianova. Participants were administered the Brain Talent Profile questionnaire to gather information about their talents. The second phase focused on identifying neuroanatomical correlates using the BrainBit helmet. Participants engage in various brief activities while wearing the EEG headband, suitable for both neurofeedback and brain activity measurements. The final phase was dedicated to analyze the data collected through the Brain Brief Profile, which comprises three domains: Perception, Evaluation, and Action. Our hypothesis suggests significant correlations between participants' talents and recorded EEG patterns. To validate this hypothesis, the outcomes derived from the Social and Emotional Intelligence (SEI) test were compared with EEG measurements. This research holds potential applications in the recruitment phase, providing insights into the neurological basis of talents in prospective employees. It may offer advantages in training initiatives dedicated to enhancing talents and skills across diverse organizational roles. The emphasis on various job roles, particularly in the social/healthcare and administrative sectors, strengthens the practical relevance of the study for talent assessment and development within organizational contexts. In summary, our research aims to bridge the gap between talents and neurophysiological correlates, with potential implications for recruitment and training strategies within organizational settings.

VL  - 13
IS  - 2
ER  -

    Copy | Download

Author Information

  • Iannoccari Giuseppe Alfredo

    Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy

    Contact Email

  • Cariani Claudia Tania

    FusionIE, Allenamenti di Intelligenza Emotiva, Cusano Milanino, Milan, Italy

  • Domenico Rega

    Fondazione Piccola Opera Charitas Giulianova, Teramo, Italy

  • Fariselli Lorenzo

    Six Seconds Italy & Europe, Bologna, Italy

  • Iseppato Ilaria

    Six Seconds Italy & Europe, Bologna, Italy

Download PDF
  • Abstract
  • Keywords

  • Document Sections

    1. 1. Introduction
    2. 2. Materials and Methods
    3. 3. Results
    4. 4. Conclusions
    5. 5. Discussion
    Show Full Outline
  • Author Contributions
  • Acknowledgments
  • Abbreviations
  • Conflict of Interest
  • Appendix
  • References
  • Cite This Article
  • Author Information

About Us

Science Publishing Group (SciencePG) is an Open Access publisher, with more than 300 online, peer-reviewed journals covering a wide range of academic disciplines.

Learn More About SciencePG

Products

Information

Important Link

Copyright © 2012 -- 2024 Science Publishing Group – All rights reserved.