Traditional mentor relationships, intimacy and emotional intelligence

This paper presents selected findings from a PhD study into traditional mentor relationships (TMR) in the lives of creative people, from the perspective of intimacy and communication. Methodological considerations are those of heuristics and hermeneutics. A model for TMRs is described. Intimacy within the TMR is viewed positively and acknowledged as essential. Mentors display emotional maturity and the criteria for emotional intelligence. Issues of methodological process are discussed in terms of communication and Heidegger's concept of authenticity.