Emotional Intelligence of Kitoo Aya in the novel 1 Rittoru no Namida

Abstract

The Japanese novel entitled 1 Rittoru no Namida (1 Liter of Tears) is a collection of
Kitoo Aya diaries. The story raised from this true story contains Kitoo Aya's struggle in
dealing with Spinocerebellar Ataxia showing her emotional intelligence.
This study uses the theory of emotional intelligence consisting of, (1) self-awarness,
knowing what one is feeling at any given time, (2) self regulation, controling or
redirecting one’s emotions, (3) motivating, utilizing emotional factors to achieve
goals, enjoy the learning process and persevere in the face of obstacles, (4) empathy,
sensing the emotions of others, (5) social skills (managing relationships).
(http://education.cu-portland.edu/).
This research belongs to qualitative research. The data collection technique
used is the library reseach technique. Data analysis techniques were carried out with
several steps, namely, (1) reading and understanding the novel purpose was to obtain
a clear understanding of the contents of the novel under study, (2) conducting library
studies related to research problems, (3) analyzing the character of Aya characters
using figure painting techniques, (4) analyzing the emotional intelligence of the
figures from the data that has been collected and supported by the character possessed
by the figure Aya, (5) concludes the results of the study.
The results of the study found that the positive and negative nature of Aya
which consisted of being vibrant, ambitious, patient, energetic, caring, expressive,
and inferior supported emotional intelligence which consisted of self-awarness, self
regulation, motivating, empathy and social skills. Character supports emotional
intelligence to be superior in living life.
Keywords: Spinocerebellar Ataxia, Character, Emotional Intelligence