A1 Journal article (refereed)
Emotional and Aesthetic Labor of Finnish Military Officers (2021)
Kouri, S. (2021). Emotional and Aesthetic Labor of Finnish Military Officers. Nordic Journal of Working Life Studies, 11(S7), 31-50. https://doi.org/10.18291/njwls.128596
JYU authors or editors
Publication details
All authors or editors: Kouri, Suvi
Journal or series: Nordic Journal of Working Life Studies
eISSN: 2245-0157
Publication year: 2021
Publication date: 15/09/2021
Volume: 11
Issue number: S7
Pages range: 31-50
Publisher: VIA University College
Publication country: Denmark
Publication language: English
DOI: https://doi.org/10.18291/njwls.128596
Publication open access: Openly available
Publication channel open access: Open Access channel
Publication is parallel published (JYX): https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/77879
Abstract
This study analyzes the emotional and aesthetic labor of Finnish military officers. It examines the kinds of valuations officers attach to the notion of an ideal soldier. The meanings that officers give to these ideals are explored within the wider framework of post-Fordist new work. The ideal soldier is traditionally considered to be physically capable and strong, rational, and in control—features culturally coded as masculine. An analysis of 108 military officers’ writings and 12 interviews showed that while the traditional masculine ideal still exists, a vast variety of valuations are related to new work. The notion of the new ideal worker includes attributes, such as empathy, emotional intelligence, and social skills, which are culturally coded as feminine qualities. These feminine valuations may work to female officers’ advantage. However, despite fractures in traditional masculine ideals, there are still some deeply rooted gender stereotypes that work to female officers’ disadvantage.
Keywords: military personnel; officers (military personnel); women; working life; professional identity; ideals; gender roles; masculinity; femininity
Free keywords: aesthetic labor; emotional labor; female officers; ideal soldier; military
Contributing organizations
Ministry reporting: Yes
VIRTA submission year: 2021
JUFO rating: 1
