It is important to emphasize that emotion norms in the workplace are determined by occupational identities

It is important to emphasize that emotional norms in the workplace are determined by occupational identities (e.g., physician or nurse), as well as the social identities of the specific individuals occupying each role (e.g., female attorney or Black attorney).

For instance, the characteristic emotions of a female physician (i.e., affectionate, broad-minded, cooperative, and compassionate) and a Black physician (i.e., perceptive, mature, optimistic, and wise) are different from those of a physician unmarked by sex or race (i.e., independent, competent, confident, and satisfied).

Research on these topics captures these differences.

The jobs of female workers, for example, are often structured in ways that require them to engage in activities that require more emotional labor and, at the same time, appear nicer, friendlier, and more available than their male counterparts.

Similarly, African Americans, especially those working in historically white institutions, are exposed to acts of subtle (as well as explicit) racism in their day-to-day interactions with customers and colleagues that can result in feelings of anger, fear, frustration, and sadness.

Question:

Consider the many social roles you occupy and the “characteristic emotions” associated with each. Now, think about the specific social identities you classify yourself as (e.g., class, gender, race, religious affiliation, etc.).

How do these social identities, in combination with the social roles you occupy, produce more specific norms and expectations about emotional expression?

Are any of these expectations associated with particular cultural stereotypes that influence the way they interact with you? As a result, have you felt pressure to express or suppress certain emotions?

Additionally, reflecting on your past interactions, have you ever interacted with someone in a way that reflected stereotypical expectations about how they should and should not feel and express those feelings?