O papel da inteligência emocional e as diferenças entre mulheres e homens no equilíbrio entre o trabalho e a vida pessoal

Abstract

This cross-sectional, quantitative study investigated the association between emotional intelligence (EI) and work-life balance (WLB), as well as gender differences, in the Portuguese context. The gap lies in the scarcity of research in the Portuguese setting and the dimensions of these constructs. The sample consisted of 92 participants, mostly women (n = 62). The Schutte Self-Report Emotional Intelligence Test (SSEIT) was used to assess EI, and Hayman’s (2005) scale was used for WLB, with correlation (Pearson) and comparison (t-test) analyses. No significant overall correlation was found between EI and WLB, but work-to-personal life enrichment (WPLE) was positively correlated with managing one’s own emotions (MOE) and managing others’ emotions (MOO). Regarding gender differences, women scored higher than men in MOO, but no significant differences were found in overall WLB. It was concluded that emotional skills (MOE/MOO) may promote work-life enrichment but do not mitigate mutual interference. Organizations can adopt combined strategies (EI training and flexibility policies). The absence of gender differences in WLB suggests that specific contexts (e.g., absence of dependents) may neutralize cultural disparities. Future research should expand the sample and include contextual variables.

Date of Award	17 Jul 2025
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Adélia Monarca (Supervisor)