Arlie Hochschild

Definition

Arlie Hochschild is a prominent sociologist known for her research on emotional labor and the sociology of gender, particularly in the context of globalization. Her work highlights how emotional labor, often performed by women in various sectors, is an integral part of many jobs, especially in service industries. This concept connects to the broader implications of gender roles in the workforce and how globalization shapes these dynamics, leading to changes in labor practices and social expectations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hochschild introduced the term 'emotional labor' in her 1983 book 'The Managed Heart,' exploring how workers are required to manage their emotions as part of their job.
2. Her research emphasizes that emotional labor is often undervalued and primarily associated with women, highlighting issues of gender inequality in the workforce.
3. Hochschild's work illustrates how globalization has transformed labor markets, leading to increased demand for emotional labor in service industries as economies become more interconnected.
4. She also discusses the concept of the 'second shift,' where working women undertake most of the household and caregiving responsibilities after their formal jobs.
5. Hochschild's findings reveal that the demands of emotional labor can lead to burnout and stress, raising concerns about mental health among workers engaged in such roles.

Review Questions

• How does Hochschild's concept of emotional labor relate to gender dynamics in the workforce?
  • Hochschild's concept of emotional labor is deeply intertwined with gender dynamics as it predominantly highlights how women are expected to perform emotional tasks as part of their jobs, especially in service-oriented roles. This expectation places an additional burden on women, contributing to gender inequality in the workplace. Emotional labor not only impacts women's career progression but also reinforces traditional gender roles, limiting opportunities for men to engage in similar roles.
• Analyze how globalization has influenced the demand for emotional labor according to Hochschild's research.
  • According to Hochschild's research, globalization has significantly increased the demand for emotional labor as economies become more service-oriented and interconnected. With the rise of global markets, jobs requiring emotional engagement—such as customer service and caregiving—have proliferated. This shift not only affects employment patterns but also reinforces gender disparities, as women disproportionately fill these roles while facing societal expectations to balance work and family life.
• Evaluate the implications of Hochschild's findings on emotional labor for contemporary discussions about work-life balance and mental health.
  • Hochschild's findings on emotional labor carry important implications for contemporary discussions about work-life balance and mental health. The emotional demands placed on workers, particularly women, can lead to chronic stress and burnout as they navigate both professional responsibilities and domestic duties. Recognizing emotional labor as a legitimate component of work challenges traditional perceptions of productivity and value, prompting calls for policies that support mental health resources and equitable distribution of caregiving responsibilities in society.

Related terms

Emotional Labor: The process of managing feelings and expressions to fulfill the emotional requirements of a job, often seen in service-oriented professions.

Globalization: The process by which businesses and other organizations develop international influence or start operating on an international scale, impacting labor markets and gender roles.

Gender Roles: Social and behavioral norms that are considered appropriate for individuals based on their gender, influencing job expectations and responsibilities.