The Relationship Between Emotional Labor Demands and Coping Mechanisms in Hotel Management Teachers
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29070/148h8434Keywords:
Emotional labor, Hotel management education, Surface acting, Coping mechanisms, Teacher burnoutAbstract
This research investigates the complex interplay between emotional labor demands and coping mechanisms among hotel management teachers, a demographic uniquely positioned at the confluence of academic rigor and service-industry expectations. The study employed a quantitative research design, gathering primary data from 85 hotel management teachers through a structured questionnaire. Analysis using Jamovi revealed that surface acting, the act of faking emotions to meet professional expectations, is significantly and positively correlated with increased emotional dissonance (Pearson's r = 0.745, p < .001) and heightened emotional exhaustion, indicated by its impact on daily energy levels (Pearson's r = 0.372, p < .001). This confirms that the constant need to project a "service-with-a-smile" persona exacts a considerable psychological toll. In terms of coping, social support, specifically interaction with colleagues and friends, was found to be a significantly more effective strategy for stress reduction compared to psychological detachment (Mann-Whitney U = 591, p = 0.019). A notable finding was the widespread lack of formal institutional training in emotional labor management among the surveyed teachers. These results underscore an urgent need for educational institutions to develop and implement targeted interventions. Such initiatives should focus on equipping teachers with authentic emotional regulation skills, fostering supportive work environments, and providing formal training programs to enhance their resilience. By addressing these critical areas, institutions can safeguard the well-being of their hospitality educators and ensure the continued delivery of high-quality education essential for preparing future hospitality professionals.
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