Emotional labour meaning

Emotional labour definitions

Understanding Emotional Labour

Emotional labour is the work that goes into managing and regulating emotions in order to fulfill the requirements of a job. This concept was first introduced by sociologist Arlie Hochschild in the 1983 book "The Managed Heart". It primarily involves managing one's own emotions, as well as influencing the emotions of others, in a professional setting. This type of work is often invisible and overlooked, but it plays a crucial role in various industries and occupations.

Types of Emotional Labour

There are two main types of emotional labour: surface acting and deep acting. Surface acting involves displaying emotions that are not genuinely felt, often resulting in emotional dissonance. Deep acting, on the other hand, involves making a conscious effort to genuinely feel the emotions required for a particular situation. Both types of emotional labour can be mentally and emotionally taxing for individuals.

Examples of Emotional Labour

Emotional labour can be found in a wide range of professions, including customer service, nursing, teaching, and hospitality. For example, a flight attendant may need to maintain a calm and cheerful demeanor even in difficult situations, such as dealing with a disruptive passenger. Similarly, a nurse may have to show empathy and compassion towards patients, even when feeling exhausted or stressed. These examples highlight the importance of emotional labour in providing high-quality service to others.

The Impact of Emotional Labour

The constant performance of emotional labour can have various impacts on individuals, including emotional exhaustion, burnout, and decreased job satisfaction. It can also lead to difficulties in maintaining authentic relationships outside of work, as individuals may become accustomed to suppressing their true emotions. Employers need to recognize the significance of emotional labour and implement strategies to support their employees in managing their emotional workload effectively.

Overall, emotional labour is an essential but often demanding aspect of many professions. By acknowledging and understanding the complexities of emotional labour, both employees and employers can work towards creating a healthier and more sustainable work environment. It is vital to prioritize mental and emotional well-being in the workplace to ensure the long-term success and satisfaction of individuals in their professional roles.

Emotional labour Examples

1. A therapist providing emotional labor to help a client work through trauma.
2. A customer service representative engaging in emotional labor to calm down an upset customer.
3. A teacher practicing emotional labor by creating a safe and supportive classroom environment.
4. A nurse demonstrating emotional labor by comforting a patient in pain.
5. A parent showing emotional labor when helping their child navigate difficult emotions.
6. A manager utilizing emotional labor to support and motivate their team.
7. A friend offering emotional labor by being a listening ear during a tough time.
8. A partner displaying emotional labor by validating and understanding their significant other's feelings.
9. A social worker practicing emotional labor to advocate for marginalized communities.
10. A caregiver providing emotional labor to an elderly individual experiencing loneliness.

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