EXPLORING EMOTIONAL LABOR IN HIGH-RISK INDUSTRIES: A CASE STUDY OF THE COAL MINING SECTOR

Abstract

The complex and dynamic nature of the study captures emotional labor in the economically and emotion laden coal mining industry. Emotional labor is processing emotions and expressing certain feelings in your job. Physical hazards and harsh work conditions are dominant features of the coal mining industry, where emotional labor plays an important role. This research utilises a case study approach to examine coal miners' experiences and emotional stringency during their daily practice. Analyzing the socialisation of workers creating individual expectations; mechanisms to control feelings and, in effect, its overall impact on well-being and job satisfaction, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the intersection of emotional labor and work within the context of the coal industry. It also discusses the importance of organizational interventions and supportive frameworks that might be put in place to help workers pursue positive states and reduce the potential detrimental effects of emotional labor. This study adds to the knowledge of emotional labor research; highlighting emotional labor issues in the coal mining industry is a critical concern for both mining workers and the industry altogether.