Emotions--the 3rd dimension of fertility and reproduction work

This paper considers the developing interest and understanding in emotional intelligence and the emotional components of work that are occurring in many areas of occupation and industry. Key insights which present a challenge to organizational and professional cultures that require emotions to stay outside the workplace are summarised. Recent research in neuro-psychology is then used to demonstrate the centrality and complexity of emotional work in health care. The relative absence of research and scholarship that locates the emotions as a central and challenging dimension of health and social care work is discussed.