Factor Structures of the Emotional Contagion Scale (ECS) across the United States and India

The factor structure of the Emotional Contagion Scale (ECS) was assessed across two cultures- US and India. ECS completed by American (N=124) and Indian (N=113) college students was subjected to principal component analyses (PCA) with promax rotations and 1-, 2- and 5-factor solutions were examined. One-dimensional factor structure of ECS was not supported in either the American or the Indian sample. A 2-factor solution of ECS showed separate loadings of positive and negative emotions together in both cultures for most, but not all of the items of ECS. A 5-factor solution in both American and Indian sample showed loading of love items together onto a single factor. The other items of the ECS designed for happiness, anger, fear and sadness did not load clearly onto these basic emotions. Implications of these mixed findings are discussed.