Perspectives on emotional labour and bullying:reviewing the role of emotions in nursing and healthcare

Abstract

This paper identifies some critical issues about the inappropriate expression of emotion in a range of healthcare settings. The authors review the concept of emotional labour both from a theoretical perspective and as a conceptual device for examining the role of emotions in nursing and healthcare. The authors explore a range of perspectives on the concept of emotional labour, each of which identifies different aspects that influence the extent to which emotions are permitted, encouraged or deemed appropriate to be expressed in healthcare settings. They also link the emotional labour literature with the workplace bullying literature with specific reference to the emotional health and well being of staff and service users. Copyright © 2010 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.