4170.0: Tuesday, October 23, 2001 - 12:45 PM

Abstract #22399

Emotional labor: Conceptual issues for occupational health

A. Butch de Castro, RN, MPH, School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, 410-366-6061, abdecastro@aol.com

Emotional Labor has been recognized as a genuine challenge for workers in the service industry and other economic sectors. The consequences of worker-customer/client interactions, particularly, can have insidious effects on the health of workers. Occupational health professionals are beginning to recognize Emotional Labor as a potential hazard to the psychosocial well-being of working populations. This presentation discusses the basic concepts of Emotional Labor, presents proposed conceptual frameworks, and considers its value as a new dimension to public health amidst the growing service industry.

Learning Objectives: At the end of the session the participants will be able to: (1) Define Emotional Labor and recognize examples of a conceptual model. (2) Distinguish types of work/occupations requiring Emotional Labor. (3) Identify specific implications of Emotional Labor on worker health. (4) Analyze the context of Emotional Labor in terms of management interests in controlling workers and the commodification of services. (5) Recognize the importance of understanding the concept of Emotional Labor for public health purposes.

Keywords: Labor, Occupational Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: - NONE -
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

Handout (.ppt format, 63.0 kb)

The 129th Annual Meeting of APHA