christenka,

i think generally Russians don't tend to throw compliments as often as Americans, we don't tend to ask "how are you?", or say 'Hi' as often as Americans, and Russians are generally more reserved. It's just a cultural difference and cultural tradition. I think I can see this difference as I meet Americans rather often.

Flirting would be different, there are some people who flirt often as in every nation, much depends on the person. But generally compliment culture is not widespread in Russia.