Perceived emotional intelligence over aggressive behavior: The moderating role of gender.

Abstract

This research aimed to examine the moderating role of gender in the influence of the perceived emotional intelligence (PEI) over aggressive behavior. The Trait Meta-Mood Scale, Big-Five Inventory and the Aggressive Provocation Questionnaire were administered to a 342 Spanish community sample, male (25.7%) and female (74.3%), ranging from 19 to 54 yr. old (X = 25.0; SD = 7.3). Interaction analyzes showed that gender moderated both the Repair-Assertiveness and the Repair-Angry relationships. High levels of Repair were related to higher Assertiveness in men, but not in women. Also, high levels of Repair were related to lower feelings of Anger in women, but not in men. Emotion regulation has shown to have a relevant role in fostering assertiveness in men and preventing anger in women. It is discussed the importance of incorporating gender differences in theoretical and empirical studies investigating PEI and aggression.