Conceptualizing invisible housework in sociological research: Cognitive, mental or emotional labor

Abstract

This article discusses the possibility of improved conceptualization and operationalization of cognitive, mental, and/or emotional labour as a form of housework. Since it falls into the domain of so-called invisible work, which implies the performance of several tasks at the same time, fragmentation of time and scattered activities, the research so far has largely neglected to survey this type of work, thus leaving unrecorded the real amount of work that mostly women perform in unpaid and invisible work in the family and household. To put an end to such neglect, this article proposes the introduction of the concept of cognitive and emotional household management (KEUK) and defines the dimensions for its operationalization: management of resources and time (cognitive work) and management of relationships and emotions (emotional work). These dimensions are studied through interpersonal relationships within the household, then with the relatives and with the wider community, and finally in relation to other institutions. The intensity of these activities is also operationalized, considering whether they are performed daily or occasionally. The article also lists 14 items with which these dimensions were investigated in a survey questionnaire. The authors of the article believe that with this kind of conceptualization and operationalization, they have contributed to a clearer definition and application of this concept in the broader research of housework, the relation of work and family obligations, and the study of gender relations and roles.