Work

Reconfiguring academic feeling rules: Ramifications of digital violence

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study delves into the complex emotional responses of academics subjected to online violence, presenting a comprehensive exploration of this pervasive issue. Leveraging semi-structured individual interviews with eleven academics – from diverse academic levels and institutions in Europe and the United States – who reported experiencing online attacks, our research explains the intricate nature of their emotional experiences. The interviews offered insights into participants' coping strategies, emotional states during and after incidents, and the impact of these emotions on decision-making processes. Integrating sociological work on feeling and expression rules, and emotional work, with perspectives specifically focusing on gender, work, and emotions, our study sheds light on how academics encountered a phase of uncertainty in established conduct and emotional norms while navigating online harassment. This research then contributes a nuanced understanding of the emotional landscapes of academics facing online harassment, shedding light on coping mechanisms, emotional complexities, and ethical considerations inherent in this domain.

Source: Emotion, space and society

DOI: 10.1016/j.emospa.2025.101127

Authors: Hande Eslen-Ziya, Alberta Giorgi

Institutions: Durban University of Technology, University of Stavanger, University of Bergamo

Language: English

Topic: Workplace Violence and Bullying

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Gender equality, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,530