Cross-cultural differences in trait emotional intelligence: A meta-analysis

Abstract

Trait emotional intelligence (trait EI) refers to a constellation of emotional perceptions measured via questionnaires and rating scales (Petrides, Pita, & Kokkinaki, 2007). One of the most widely used measures is the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire (TEIQue), which has been translated into over 20 languages and utilized worldwide science and practice. Cross-cultural studies on trait EI are limited, and few have examined how cultures influence trait EI from the perspective of Hofstede's theory of cultural dimensions. To address this gap, a meta-analysis was conducted to investigate the effects of cultural dimensions on trait EI. Four electronic databases were searched, and 176 eligible studies were included, with 188 independent samples and 67,734 observations. The results of subgroup analyses revealed higher trait EI levels in cultures characterized by: individualism (versus collectivism); low uncertainty avoidance (versus high); low power distance (versus high); indulgence (versus restraint); and masculinity (versus femininity). No significant differences were found between short-term and long-term orientation cultures. Potential moderators were examined through subgroup analyses and meta-regression, and sensitivity analyses were used to test the robustness of the findings. By illuminating how cultural values influence emotional perceptions, this work paves the way for more globally responsive applications of trait emotional intelligence.