Title: Impression management: a form of emotion work for women in a male-dominated profession

Authors: Jacqueline H. Watts

Addresses: Faculty of Health and Social Care, The Open University, 1-11 Hawley Crescent, Camden Town, London NW1 8NP, UK

Abstract: This article discusses ethnographic qualitative research into women|s experiences in professional construction roles. It highlights the discursive features of a highly male-dominated industry that is imbued with a |presenteeism| culture. Drawing on Goffman|s concept of impression management, the article explores women|s responses to cultural and social pressures to be a |hard| and |long| working member of the team. The requirement to observe a strict separation between home and work frames what is seen as appropriate workplace talk; women|s collusion in this observance is emotionally demanding adding to their stress but essential in managing others| impression of their performance in role.

Keywords: atypical work; construction industry; emotion work; gender; impression management; professional occupations; workplace talk; women; female employees; ethnography; cultural pressures; social pressures; teamwork; male domination.

DOI: 10.1504/IJWOE.2008.019424

International Journal of Work Organisation and Emotion, 2008 Vol.2 No.3, pp.221 - 235

Published online: 11 Jul 2008 *

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