The Logic and Development Direction of Research on Emotional Labor of Chinese Teachers

Teachers' emotional labor involves the practical expression of their emotions, and it is a crucial factor in assessing their professional well-being. Since the 1980s, research on teachers' emotional labor in China has progressed through three stages: germination, exploration and development, and expansion and innovation, ultimately leading to a shift from one-way learning to indigenous innovation. At present, research has gradually improved in terms of theoretical development and practical application. With a relatively systematic measurement mechanism established, pedagogy has evolved into a stable and independent key research field. The research on teachers' emotional labor in China reflects several key aspects: the abstract and concrete progression of roles in research approaches, the value conflict between natural emotions and moral emotions in value pursuits, and the integration of scientism and humanism in the methodology. Looking ahead, China should focus its research on teachers' emotional labor on its local value, highlight its disciplinary advantage, and study those with Chinese characteristics within the Chinese discourse system.