The Managed Heart, written by Arlie Russell Hochschild, is a groundbreaking book that explores the concept of emotional labor and how it affects our personal and professional lives. In this book, Hochschild delves into the idea that people are expected to manage their emotions in order to fit into society’s expectations, and how this can have detrimental effects on our well-being.
In the first chapter, Hochschild introduces the concept of emotional labor and how it is different from physical labor. Emotional labor refers to the management of emotions in order to meet the emotional needs of others. This can include things like pretending to be happy when you’re not, or suppressing your own emotions to make someone else feel more comfortable. Hochschild argues that emotional labor is a key part of many jobs, but it is also something that we do in our personal lives as well.
Chapter 2: The Spread of Emotional Labor
In the second chapter, Hochschild looks at how emotional labor has become more prevalent in our society. She argues that the rise of the service industry, along with the growth of the middle class, has led to an increase in emotional labor. People are expected to be friendly and accommodating in order to provide good customer service, and this can lead to a lot of emotional strain.
Chapter 3: The Cost of Emotional Labor
In the third chapter, Hochschild explores the negative effects of emotional labor on our health and well-being. She argues that suppressing our emotions can lead to physical symptoms like headaches and stomach aches, and that it can also lead to burnout and depression. Hochschild also looks at how emotional labor can affect our relationships with others, as we may not be able to fully express our true feelings.
Chapter 4: The Dilemma of Emotional Labor
In the fourth chapter, Hochschild examines the dilemma that many people face when it comes to emotional labor. On the one hand, we want to be authentic and true to ourselves, but on the other hand, we may feel pressure to suppress our emotions in order to fit in with societal expectations. Hochschild argues that this dilemma can lead to a lot of stress and anxiety, as we try to balance the need to fit in with the need to be true to ourselves.
Chapter 5: The Politics of Emotional Labor
In the fifth chapter, Hochschild looks at how emotional labor is related to politics and power. She argues that certain groups of people, such as women and people of color, are expected to perform emotional labor in order to be accepted by society. Hochschild also looks at how emotional labor can be used as a tool of control in relationships, as one person may use emotional labor to manipulate another person.
Conclusion
Overall, The Managed Heart is a thought-provoking book that explores the concept of emotional labor and how it affects our lives. Hochschild’s argument that emotional labor is a key part of many jobs, but also something that we do in our personal lives, is a important one. The book also highlights the negative effects of emotional labor on our health and well-being, and the dilemma that many people face when it comes to managing their emotions. If you’re interested in understanding more about emotional labor and how it affects our society, this book is definitely worth reading.
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