Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly altered the way we work and live, particularly for those in the field of education and therapy. The research article "When work came home: Formation of feeling rules in the context of a pandemic" provides valuable insights into how feeling rules and emotion work have evolved during this period. As practitioners providing online therapy services, such as those at TinyEYE, understanding these changes can enhance our ability to create positive outcomes for children. This blog explores how the findings from the research can be applied to improve online therapy practices.
Understanding Feeling Rules and Emotion Work
Feeling rules are the societal norms that dictate how individuals should feel and express emotions in specific contexts. During the pandemic, these rules have been in flux, leading to new forms of emotion work. The study highlighted how parents working from home had to navigate overlapping roles and responsibilities, leading to a reevaluation of traditional norms around productivity and family life.
Implications for Online Therapy
For online therapy practitioners, understanding these shifts in feeling rules can inform how we approach therapy sessions with children and their families. Here are some key takeaways:
- Empathy and Flexibility: Recognize that families are navigating new emotional landscapes. Approach each session with empathy and be flexible in your methods to accommodate the unique challenges each family faces.
- Creating Safe Spaces: Use online platforms to create a safe and supportive environment where children can express their emotions freely. Encourage open communication and validate their feelings.
- Family Involvement: Involve family members in the therapy process when appropriate. This can help reinforce the feeling rules being adapted at home and provide a more holistic approach to therapy.
Encouraging Further Research
The pandemic has underscored the need for ongoing research into how feeling rules and emotion work impact therapy outcomes. Practitioners are encouraged to engage with current research and contribute to the growing body of knowledge in this area. By doing so, we can continue to refine our practices and better support the children and families we serve.
Conclusion
As we adapt to the changes brought about by the pandemic, understanding the evolution of feeling rules and emotion work is crucial for online therapy practitioners. By applying the insights from the research article "When work came home: Formation of feeling rules in the context of a pandemic," we can enhance our therapy practices and create better outcomes for children. To read the original research paper, please follow this link: When work came home: Formation of feeling rules in the context of a pandemic.
