Quinn is upset but tries not to cry during a discussion with her boss. She doesn’t want to be labeled or judged for getting so upset at work. This is an example of: a. facilitative emotions b. emotional expression c. emotional labor d. self-disclosure e. debilitative emotions
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is c. emotional labor.
Explanation:
Emotional labor refers to the process of managing and suppressing emotions to meet the demands of a job or workplace expectations. In Quinn’s case, she is trying to prevent herself from crying during a discussion with her boss because she doesn’t want to be judged or labeled as emotional at work. This act of consciously controlling her emotions, especially when she feels upset, is an example of emotional labor.
Emotional labor often involves employees putting on a “mask” to maintain a professional demeanor, regardless of how they truly feel. This is particularly common in jobs where emotional regulation is important, such as in customer service, healthcare, or any workplace requiring interpersonal interactions. The purpose of emotional labor is to present a controlled, calm, or happy emotional state to others, even if the person doesn’t feel that way.
In Quinn’s situation, she is consciously controlling her emotional reaction (wanting to cry) to avoid negative judgment, which is the essence of emotional labor. While emotional labor can sometimes be necessary, it can also lead to burnout or emotional exhaustion if individuals are constantly suppressing their true emotions.
To clarify the other options:
- a. facilitative emotions are emotions that enhance performance or help with tasks, so they wouldn’t apply here.
- b. emotional expression refers to outwardly showing feelings, which Quinn is not doing since she’s suppressing her emotions.
- d. self-disclosure involves sharing personal feelings or experiences, but Quinn is holding back.
- e. debilitative emotions are those that negatively affect performance, which is different from the controlled effort to maintain composure in Quinn’s case.
Thus, emotional labor is the best description of Quinn’s actions.
