Analysis of Female Housework from the Perspective of Emotional Labor

Abstract

Previous research has primarily examined household labor from a singular perspective of gender roles. This study approaches the topic from the viewpoint of emotional labor, focusing on the surface and deep acting involved in women’s household responsibilities. By further categorizing household labor, this research helps women adjust their moods according to different types of tasks, thereby reducing the emotional toll of labor. The author employed qualitative research methods, specifically in-depth interviews, to distinguish between surface and deep acting in household labor. Through interviews and participatory observation of subjects, it was found that common physical tasks such as cleaning, cooking, and shopping are classified as surface emotional labor. In contrast, organizing celebrations and encouraging family members, while also demanding emotional energy, still fall under surface emotional labor. Activities that involve conflict resolution, relationship maintenance, and emotional regulation require long-term deep investment and are classified as deep emotional labor. The study indicates that women often need to engage in emotional expressions to meet societal expectations within the division of household labor. To alleviate women’s emotional burdens, both society and families need to take collective action to redistribute emotional labor, such as balancing responsibilities and setting labor boundaries.