Women score higher on emotional intelligence, study finds

An extensive review of nearly 30 years of research across 76 countries has provided fresh evidence that women outperform men on measures of emotional intelligence on average. The analysis found that women particularly excel in recognising and managing the emotions of others—a key component of emotional intelligence that encompasses awareness, understanding, and regulation of feelings in oneself and others.

The research synthesis consolidates findings from multiple studies conducted across diverse cultural, economic, and social contexts worldwide. Despite the consistency of these results, experts say the implications remain underexplored in policy and workplace settings across South and Southeast Asia and globally.

Emotional intelligence has gained increasing recognition in recent years as a critical skill in leadership, team dynamics, and interpersonal effectiveness. Yet researchers question why measurably higher emotional capabilities in women have not translated into corresponding recognition or advancement in many professional spheres.

The findings suggest that while women demonstrate stronger average performance in emotional awareness and empathy, broader societal factors continue to shape how these abilities are valued, deployed, and rewarded. The research underscores a disconnect between demonstrated emotional competencies and their acknowledgment in institutional and organisational contexts.

As organisations increasingly recognise the importance of emotional intelligence for effective management and collaboration, the study highlights the need for deeper examination of how gendered perceptions about emotions and capabilities influence workplace dynamics and career progression.