Differences in emotional intelligence in Russian and Azerbaijani culture

Abstract

Psychometric equivalence (measurement invariance) of the Russian version of EmIn questionnaire (developed by D.Lyusin) was evaluated in two samples of respondents from Russia (n = 275) and Azerbaijan (n = 275). Exploratory factor analysis on pooled sample revealed a 4-factor structure with dimensions interpreted as understanding of one’s own emotions, management of one’s own emotions, understanding of others’ emotions, management of others’ emotions. Using confirmatory factor analysis, strong factorial invariance (equivalence of factor loadings and intercepts) was established which allows to compare means scores in two cultures. Russians demonstrate better understanding of one’s own emotions and management of one’s own emotions than Azerbaijanians. Russian males report better management of their own emotions, compared to Russian females (in all age groups). Azerbaijani females report better understanding of others’ emotions, compared to Azerbaijani males (except for the senior age group). The results are interpreted in the context of cross-cultural differences between Russian and Azerbaijani cultural values such as individualism and masculinity.