Good Working Relationships Research Articles

Barriers and Facilitators in Implementation of Nutritional Benefit Transfer to Tuberculosis Patients

Abstract Background Malnutrition & Tuberculosis (TB) form a vicious cycle. Nikshay Poshan Yojana (NPY) is a key strategy for a TB free India, that seeks to provide financial assistance for nutritional support to TB patients. The study is a qualitative study to identify operational challenges and facilitators in implementation of NPY Methods In Depth Interview (IDI) of 18 Senior Treatment Supervisor (STS) at Tuberculosis Unit (TU) and 19 Tuberculosis Health Visitor (TB HV) at Designated Microscopy Centre’s (DMC) was done. For further insights, the STS, at District Tuberculosis Centre, Lucknow was also interviewed. Informal discussion was done with about 50 Tuberculosis patients. We explored providers perspective on impact of NPY on other duties/services, case load, hours dedicated to NPY, practice protocols, record keeping and data management, compliances, capacity building needs, quality protocols, key enablers, motivating factors, challenges, best practices and beneficiary’s perspectives on quality of life, facilitators and challenges in availing services. Results Motivating leadership, supportive staff, good working relationship and seamless communication, teamwork, use of technology, supportive supervision & collaboration and support of NGO for private sector were the key facilitators. Barriers comprised system level barriers (Budget constraints, issues with NIKSHAY software and bank account), provider level barriers (shortage of human resource, nonfunctional tablets) and patient level barriers (stigma and bank account related challenges). The encouraging finding was majority of recipients, responding that they used the incentive to purchase ration, vitamin supplements etc. Conclusions NPY is having its intended benefit but there are barriers that need to be resolved for successful roll out. The study yield suggestions for removing barriers and found a set of innovations that can be replicated across other settings with high Tuberculosis burden Key messages • Malnutrition and Tuberculosis form a vicious cycle. Nutritional support to TB patients improves treatment outcome and can save lives. • Operational research on implementation of NPY offers insights for successful roll out of this key initiative across other resource limited settings in developing countries.

Co-producing evidence to inform universal health coverage implementation in Ireland: 2019-2024

Abstract Background In 2017, Ireland’s parliamentary health committee published a ten-year health reform plan, entitled Sláintecare, with the aim of delivering universal healthcare. Endorsed by government in 2018, progressing Sláintecare remains government policy in 2024. In 2019, Prof Burke was awarded public funding to co-produce knowledge for the design and implementation of the regions, a key aspect of Sláintecare. In 2020, with the arrival of COVID-19, regional reform was paused and the research pivoted to capture the learning from the COVID-19 health system response to inform Sláintecare. In 2022/3, the research returned to focus on the regions. Methods Foundations’ research resulted in 14 peer-reviewed publications between 2019 and 2023. These were mixed-methods using qualitative and quantitative data and analysis. Coproduction with health system leaders that were devising and implementing the regions and the COVID-19 health system response underpinned the research. Results There are 14 academic publications from the Foundations Research (2019-2023). At the core of co-production is trust and good working relationships. Co-producing research with senior policy makers and implementers has benefits and drawbacks. The benefits include access to resources and data and that the data and knowledge generated are more likely to be adopted. Drawbacks include control over areas researched, denial of access to data and lack of openness to research findings. Producing controversial findings, unpopular with government, minister or health system leaders can also lead to difficulties for the research team. Discussion/conclusions Details of the coproduction process with senior health system and policy leaders will be presented. It will detail specific examples of the research which were initiated by the health system and those that came from the academic research team. It will give examples of how the research influenced the policy making and implementation processes. Key messages • Co-producing research between academics and health system and policy leaders leads to better use of evidence. • Trust and good workign relationships are key to co-producing research that is used in policy making and implementation processes.

Boosting Employee Performance: The Roles of Motivation, Work Environment, Discipline, and Communication

The purpose of this research is to examine the influence of work motivation, work environment, work discipline and communication on the performance of PT United Tractors Cakung CGS Division Employees. This type of research is explanatory research. The sampling technique uses salted samples. Data was collected using a survey method using a questionnaire. The data analysis method used is multiple linear regression analysis. The research results show that (1) work motivation has a positive and significant effect on employee performance. (2) The work environment has a positive and significant effect on employee performance. (3) work discipline does not have a significant effect on employee performance. (4) communication has no significant effect on employee performance. (5) work motivation, work environment, work discipline, and communication simultaneously influence employee performance. The managerial implications that can be drawn from these findings are very important for effective human resource management. First, high work motivation can be increased by providing appropriate incentives and encouraging employees to achieve higher targets. Second, a conducive work environment can be created by arranging a comfortable and safe workspace, as well as ensuring good working relationships between employees.

Factors that affect the implementation of an integrated care programme for older people with different frailty levels: a qualitative study of commissioners and provider stakeholders

IntroductionThe NHS has made it mandatory for General Practices in England to proactively identify and manage older people with moderate and severe frailty since the GMS contract of 2017/2018. In Luton, stakeholders developed the Luton Framework of Frailty (LFF) to implement this national policy. The aim of this study was to explore the factors that affect the implementation of this national policy at a local level.MethodsIn-depth interviews were conducted with 18 commissioners and service providers, all of whom were involved in providing services for older people with different frailty levels (OPDFL). Purposive and snowball sampling methods were used, with thematic analysis used for data analysis.ResultsTwo main themes with several sub-themes were found. The first theme was the tension within existing national policy initiatives to provide integrated care services for OPDFL, which illuminated their strengths and limitations. Participants felt that new initiatives, such as the development of Primary Care Networks and Enhanced Health in Care Homes, have improved primary care coordination. However, the traditional reactive approach for managing older people who are frail was thought to be counterproductive, when an approach that focused on prevention and early intervention would have been better. The second theme concerned the contextual factors that affect implementation of integrated care. These included having key leaders at a local level, the requirement for more funding, as well as the need for good working relationships among service providers. However, the lack of awareness about the care pathways among GPs was thought to be a reason for the variation in the implementation of the LFF. The COVID-19 pandemic was perceived as a challenge for the implementation of the LFF. Finally, polices were thought to succeed only if more resources are provided, while the term frailty should be used with caution due to the negative connotations of OPDFL towards this term.ConclusionThe implementation of an integrated care programme for OPDFL can be affected by several factors. Having proactive national policies that facilitate coordination and, having key leaders locally, the need for more funding, and good working relationships, are some of the contextual factors that could facilitate a successful implementation. In contrast, the lack of awareness of the care pathways that have been introduced locally, insufficient resources to deliver the programmes efficiently and a lack of careful consideration of how the term frailty is used could hinder this being put into practice.

Effective Communication Strategies for Business Analysts to Bridge the Gap between IT and Finance

As organizations depend more on technology to stay ahead of the competition, their information technology (IT) and business departments must work together closely. However, cultural differences and understanding between the specialized fields often make it hard for them to work together effectively. If these issues are fixed, they could make it easier to finish projects, stick to budgets, and agree on the company's goals. Many companies use business analysts to help people talk to each other by acting as liaisons knowledgeable in technology and finances. However, there is limited information in the literature about how analysts can connect the tasks. This study fills that gap by looking into the problems when IT and finance work together and suggesting specific steps analysts can take to improve strategic alignment. Looking at past studies shows that common differences make it hard for people to work together. IT and finance use different vocabularies for technical terms and project-based versus financial terms, leading to misunderstandings. They also set other priorities. It emphasizes speed of innovation and technical practicality, while finance emphasizes reducing risk, accuracy, and returns. There are also differences in the amount of knowledge and skill that people in IT and finance have regarding technical solution details and financial effects. They also use different ways to make decisions. IT bases judgments on technological factors, while finance assesses business impact. Besides, cultural norms diverge between the flexible and creative IT culture and the rigorous and methodical finance culture. Business analysts should utilize several focused communication strategies to close these gaps. Creating a shared vocabulary helps terms from diverse fields fit. Regular mapping and stakeholder conversations help you grasp other perspectives. Actively listening, repeating, asking questions, and summarizing shows you comprehend. Educating on decision-making variables and expertise broadens perspectives. Discussing cultural meanings and making sure individuals understand questions improves discussion. Using shared goals like increasing sales or lowering costs is another way to unite people around similar goals. By using these specific methods, business experts can help IT and finance work together despite cultural differences. Mapping and teaching regularly help keep relationships strong even as needs and staff change. By focusing on active listening, aligning vocabulary, and highlighting shared interests, you can build good working relationships necessary to get strategic benefits from technology investments.

Analisis Yuridis terhadap Perjanjian Kerja Waktu Tertentu (PKWT) dalam Hubungan Kerja (Studi Kasus pada PT. Gratia Jaya Farma)

The demographic bonus period in Indonesia has an impact on the availability of workers of productive age for companies. The weak position of workers in employment relations means that many workers do not get their rights as they should. In this case, the working relationship between PT. Gratia Jaya Farma and its employees who use a Specific Time Work Agreement (PKWT) should be based on the laws governing employment in Indonesia. Thus, this research aims to explain more specifically the contractual relationship in the implementation of a Specific Time Work Agreement (PKWT) at PT. Gratia Jaya Farma from a positive legal perspective. The type of research used is sociological juridical with qualitative analysis techniques. This research was carried out at PT. Gratia Jaya Farma, with data sources in the form of interviews with relevant informants and secondary data in the form of literature reviews, journals and other documents. The results of the research show that the implementation of the Specific Time Work Agreement (PKWT) at PT. Gratia Jaya Farma is largely in line with Government Regulation Number 35 of 2021 and other provisions. Things that are implemented include the terms and conditions for the validity of the work agreement, the nature and type of work, the rights and obligations of the parties and so on. Meanwhile, provisions that have not been implemented and inhibiting factors must be evaluated in order to create a good working relationship.

Measuring levels of family stress and engagement in child protection social work: an explorative analysis of parental stress and social worker practice skills

PurposeEffectively engaging parents under stress is a key component of skilful child welfare practice. This paper aims to investigate how social workers practice with parents with either high or normal levels of stress.Design/methodology/approachThe study used a mixed methods design including observations and audio recordings of meetings between families and social workers, interviews with parents/carers and questionnaires with social workers. Validated instruments, including the general health questionnaire (GHQ) for stress levels and the working alliance inventory (WAI), were used to explore how levels of stress influence practice.FindingsData from 366 families found twice as many parents had clinically elevated GHQ scores compared to the general population (40% to about 20%). Stressed parents reported significantly less good working relationships with social workers [WAI, for the less stressed parents/carers, M = 65.3 vs highly stressed M = 60.6, t(324) = 2.407, p = 0.017, d = 0.28]. When quality of practice was directly measured, workers showed higher level of relationship skills with the less stressed group [t(291) = 1.71, p = 0.44, d = 0.205].Originality/valueThis study explored the interaction between practitioner skills and family factors influencing engagement, such as stress and anxiety. Engagement with stressed families may be particularly challenging, making it all the more important to understand how social workers engage such families to provide effective help and support. A better understanding of the parent-worker relationship under stress can lead to the development of training and practice strategies aimed at overcoming barriers in family engagement. This study also highlights the need for practice to re-focus on the relational elements and the emotional well-being of families.

Exam Form Management System

Exams are a scary topic for students and teachers to discuss. The successful operation of the exam depends on administrators establishing the system and establishing a good working relationship with the exam center administrator. Communicate with staff and students simultaneously to ensure everyone is working towards the same goal. Automated systems will reduce all the challenges associated with test management. Academia ERP is a comprehensive system that provides an exam model that includes all activities related to exam management, from direct receipt of registration forms and exam documents to completion of results and hard copy proofing and data analysis. The exam module contains all the necessary information students need to register for the exam. The module is linked to the student database; Therefore ID/name/registration etc. Just fill in the fields. It helps in keeping all the necessary information about the student. Exam Module for Academia provides the following for easy and effective exam management in education - Study or Exam Module ERP followed by Systematization Exam Management Module in Academia is the best automation system that automates and facilitates the quality of planned and executed tests; Make the testing process efficient and paperless. Academia's Exam Management Portal helps you complete the entire exam process, from pre-planning (like creating exam papers, exam schedules, and scoring rubrics), to managing materials and dispatching proctors. Automated systems are designed to manage the access rights of different users to prevent unauthorized users from abusing and controlling legal and legal information as well as many other information, including reviews that are not only for informational purposes. The project aims to create an effective platform for process management. As we mentioned above, it has different modules. Student and test data are stored in the database

Recovery of adults with autism spectrum disorder during intensive inpatient treatment: a qualitative study.

Although some adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) require intensive and specialized ASD treatment, there is little research on how these adults experience the recovery process. Recovery is defined as the significant improvement in general functioning compared to the situation prior to treatment. This qualitative study describes the recovery process from the perspective of adults on the autism spectrum during intensive inpatient treatment. Semi-structured interviews (n = 15) were carried out and analyzed according to the principles of grounded theory. Our results indicate that, given the specific characteristics of autism, therapeutic interventions and goal-oriented work cannot be carried out successfully, and the recovery process cannot begin, if no good working relationship has been established, and if care is not organized in ways that a person on the autism spectrum finds clear and predictable.

Evaluation of student internship programs to support the sustainability of vocational education institutions and industrial cooperation programs

The internship program is an annual routine activity in all faculties at Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta (UNY). This program implements a link and match between educational institutions and industry but has not been evaluated comprehensively. Therefore, conducting program evaluation research using the Context, Input, Process, and Product (CIPP) model is important. The type of research used is program evaluation research with the CIPP model. Data collection techniques in this research used questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions. The research subjects were UNY students who were grouped into four groups. Data were analyzed descriptively and quantitatively. The results showed that the context aspect of the internship program (goals and objectives) was in accordance with the graduate profile set at UNY. However, the general policy for organizing internships during the pandemic still needs to be developed. The systems and procedures of the academic community support the internship program, but there is still a need to improve cooperation documents and internship information systems for all faculties. The implementation of the internship program is in accordance with the activity plan set at UNY, but SIPKL needs to be developed to equalize the perception of field supervisors. The product of the internship program is in accordance with the goals and objectives set at UNY, but some students (34.16%) still have not received a job offer from the internship site. The results of this research can contribute to developing a quality-oriented internship program, which will then positively impact the cooperation relationship between universities and industry. Thus, a good working relationship will benefit both parties and potentially develop cooperation in other programs.

PENERAPAN METODE PEMBELAJARAN DOUBLE LOOP PROBLEM SOLVING DALAM MENINGKATKAN HASIL BELAJAR PPKn KELAS VIII SMP NEGERI 2 TELUKDALAM

The problem in this research is that student learning outcomes tend to be low. The aim of the research is to determine the application of the double loop problem solving learning method to improve PPKn learning outcomes for class VIII SMP Negri 2 Teluk for the 2023/2024 academic year. This type of research is a class action lawsuit (PTK). This research targeted 30 class VIII students and the results showed that student learning outcomes increased. This is shown by an increase in student learning outcomes in Cycle I which has an average score of 1. Cycle II has a completeness level of 100% with a score of 64, a completeness level of 56.67%, and an average score of 78.17. By applying the double loop problem solving learning method, students are trained to design discoveries, solve problems, and build good working relationships between students. It can be concluded that the application of the "Double Loop Problem Solving" learning method will improve PPKn learning outcomes for class VIII SMP Negri 2 Teluk for the 2023/2024 academic year. The suggestions put forward by researchers are: 1) Students should play an active role in learning activities. Learning outcomes will definitely improve if you are actively involved in learning. 2) Teachers should use the "double loop problem-solving" learning method as an alternative to improve learning outcomes and involve students in the learning process. 3) Schools should encourage subject teachers to adopt learning methods.

Implementasi Kebijakan Pemerintah Tentang Tenaga Bongkar Muat (TKBM) dan Peningkatan Kesejahteraan di Pelabuhan Yos Sudarso Ambon Provinsi Maluku

The research was conducted to examine the implementation of government policy on charging frame energy (TCBM) as well as improving the well-being of staff at Yos Sudarso Ambon port. The results of the researchers' observations that the implementation of employee welfare standards has not been optimized in accordance with the regulations in force. Furthermore, wages paid to officials on the basis of boarding are not on the amount of income so it is still weak in the administration of financial administration. As for the research method used, it is qualitative descriptive by conducting in-depth interviews with the chosen informants. As for the findings of the research, (1). There's still recruitment of port workers based on the family system. Besides, there's still a weak motivation to do the hard work itself. (2). That the reality of a balanced and harmonious social life between the working groups in the port of Ambon can be used as an example of a good working relationship.

Exploring the Role of Sickness Absence Coordinators in Implementing Interventions to Reduce Sickness Absence in Public Sector Workplaces in Denmark.

In 2019, an initiative to reduce sickness absence in public sector workplaces in Denmark was introduced. The initiative involved appointing a sickness absence coordinator (SA coordinator) to oversee the implementation of workplace-based sickness absence interventions. Since the role of the SA coordinator is a novel concept introduced as part of the initiative, this study investigates the responsibilities of SA coordinators and the challenges they experienced in fulfilling this role during the implementation process. Semi-structured interviews with and observations of SA coordinators from four public sector workplaces were carried out. We collected the first four interviews and observations during the implementation process with follow-up interviews collected at the end of the process. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The SA coordinators all experienced challenges in terms of lack of commitment among the line managers to participate in the intervention. They experienced being seen as a burden rather than a helping hand, and felt that the line managers might have difficulty recognizing the value of the SA coordinators. Potential ways to improve the collaboration between the SA coordinators and the line managers include considering hiring the SA coordinator in-house and incorporation of intervention components into existing activities to accommodate the busyness of the line managers. To support the SA coordinators in carrying out their role and responsibilities, this study suggests that it is important to ensure commitment to the role, especially among the line managers in order to enhance good working relationships.

The working relationship between people in marginalised situations and street outreach workers

AbstractA good working relationship between clients and professionals increases the chances of better intervention outcomes for clients. A longitudinal cohort study was carried out amongst clients who were in touch with professionals from a Dutch social street work (SSW) organisation. We used a questionnaire to examine client perspectives (n = 332) on the relational and goal‐oriented part of the working relationship after a minimum of 8 months of contact with SSW. We furthermore examined to what extent both parts of the working relationship were influenced by client characteristics and SSW metrics. Clients were asked to reflect on the relational part and the goal‐oriented part of the working relationship. Clients who only met SSW professionals in public areas perceived a weaker working relationship in both aspects. A stronger relational and goal‐oriented working relationship was perceived when receiving more practical support. Clients who had been in contact with an SSW professional for a long period of time perceived a weaker goal‐oriented working relationship. This study shows that a working relationship, with both relational and goal‐oriented aspects, can be established between workers and marginalised people in their daily environment. Frequent contact and providing practical support can improve both parts of the working relationship. Please refer to the Supplementary Material section to find this article's Community and Social Impact Statement.

Urgensi Komunikasi dalam Menumbuhkan Motivasi dalam Pembuatan Produk Newklin

Communication between work groups is persuasive communication, face-to-face, to arouse passion and activity at work. The purpose of this paper is to describe how the urgency of communication in fostering the motivation of a work group or work group in developing a product. Type and research approach This type of research is a literature and field analysis study using qualitative methods. Qualitative research used by researchers is descriptive data, namely in the form of written or spoken words from people and observable behavior. Researchers use a qualitative approach because researchers are interested in a phenomenon in the field by collecting data through interview and observation techniques. The results of this study are, communication has several variables that can motivate the work of the work group, namely the relationship between superiors and subordinates, relationships among coworkers, company rules and policies, working conditions, and compensation. The communication that most quickly fosters motivation is the relationship between superiors and subordinates. The reason is that the supervisor is the one who must be able to motivate the work of the work group working in his company and maintain good working and communication relationships with the work group, if this does not happen, there is a high probability of massive changes in the work group structure. Communication with motivation is closely related to work group performance in achieving company goals.
 Keywords: Communication Urgency; Motivation; Work Group; Newklin Soap

Key Elements of the Inter-professional Education (IPE): Perceptions amongst Pre-Registration Students in the Different Health Professions in Sri Lanka

Aims: Inter-professional education (IPE) is important in developing good working relationships between different health professionals. The key elements of IPE have entitled as clinical situations, skills expected in IPE and teaching / learning methods. Health professional students in Sri Lanka experience informal inter-professional learning opportunities during clinical years. The aim of this research was to explore student perceptions on these key elements of IPE.
 Study Design: A cross sectional study.
 Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted with the students who have had prior clinical training for a period of 1 year, from 8 health professional groups (Medical, Physiotherapy, Nursing Diploma, Nursing Degree, Medical Laboratory Science, Pharmacy, Audiology, Speech & Language Therapy) at different health educational institutions.
 Methodology: A total of 686 students were invited to complete a self-administered questionnaire. The data was entered and analyzed using SPSS. The part of the data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The response rate for the survey was 84.8%.
 Results: The findings suggest that the key elements of IPE are important to improve the aims of IPE. Most health care students agree that management of an acute situation, community based care and rehabilitative care are the most important clinical situations where students can learn to work as a team, one of the main aims of inter-professional learning. Respect for each other and communication skills were identified as the most imperative skills that can be improved through interprofessional learning. Most students strongly agree that demonstration and work based tasks in wards are key teaching methods for achieving the aims of IPE.
 Conclusion: This study suggests some focused approaches for IPE in Sri Lanka and students may need more clarity on the aim of IPE.

Quality Leadership and Management, Technology-Based Instruction, Work Attitude and Teachers’ Performance in the New Normal

The study is a causal model development of the quality leadership and management level, technology-based Instruction, and work attitude on teachers' performance in the new normal. The descriptive–correlational, causal–comparative research design was employed using a modified researcher survey instrument. It was conducted in Bangkok Metropolitan Region, Bangkok, Thailand, with Adventist Filipino teachers. The data collected from the questionnaires and Google forms were examined and interpreted using the frequency count and percent, mean and standard deviation, Pearson Product - Moment Correlation, multiple regression, and path analysis. The quality leadership and management level indicated that Adventist Filipino teachers have a good working relationship with the school director/Department head/Coordinator and their co-teachers. Adventist Filipino Teachers have a very high positive attitude to technology and use it for Instruction. Teachers' work attitude indicates a high good character in all sub-variables. The Adventist Filipino teachers' performance is outstanding and commendable. A positive relationship exists between teachers' performance and quality leadership management, technology-based Instruction, and work attitude. The best-fitting model is anchored on quality leadership, management, and teacher work attitude.

The Role of Watershed Management Board in the Rehabilitation of Butuanon River Watershed in Cebu, Philippines

This study was conducted to assess the role of Butuanon River Watershed Management Board (BRWMB) in rehabilitating the Butuanon River in Cebu, Philippines. Data was gathered through key informant interviews with officials of the Board and a self-administered questionnaire for the members of the Board and was analyzed through descriptive and thematic analyses. Results showed that since the creation of the Butuanon River Watershed Water Quality Management Area (BRW WQMA) in 2014, the river's biological oxygen demand (BOD) level has decreased. While the level has yet to meet the water quality guidelines of DENR's Class D rivers, the Board's initiatives like clean-up activities, information, education, and communication (IEC), and the relocation of informal settlers residing at riverbanks contributed to the improvement of the river's water quality. The activities conducted by the Board strengthened the linkages with other stakeholders. The good working relationship among the stakeholders facilitated the convergence of their resources, making their efforts to rehabilitate the Butuanon River more coordinated and sustainable. Furthermore, Mandaue LGU, the chair of BRWMB, integrated its efforts in its Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) and the 10-year Action Plan of the BRW WQMA in its Butuanon River Rehabilitation Plan. Results revealed that the existence of BRWMB played a vital role in the Butuanon River's rehabilitation, and such efforts are hoped to be sustained with the participation of the various stakeholders and formulation of policies to support all efforts of the Board.

The Effects of Using the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) on the Fundamental English Classes of Thai EFL Learners

This study aimed to gather information related to cooperative learning and corrective feedback to support the English teaching and learning based on the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) of grade 10-12 students in the academic years of 2023 at Wat Phrasrimahadhat Secondary Demonstration School, Phranakhon Rajabhat University. The participants were 284 students who studied Fundamental English I, II, III, IV, V and VI. The instrument was the Google form questionnaire developed in terms of teaching and learning English. The results were interpreted, categorized, and tabulated on computer sheets. The findings revealed that cooperative learning helps student to socialize, enhances good working relationships, improve the attitude towards work, enhances class participation, and make students participate in activities. Additionally, based on the corrective feedback, students valued teachers who asked questions to ensure understanding, motivated to persevere through difficult tasks, provided multiple explanations, respected students' ideas, and encouraged to learn from their mistakes.

Hannah Gadsby: Emotional Capital and Affective Economies in Stand-Up Comedy

Being a stand-up comic requires skills: the ability to craft jokes and perform them; the capacity to “read the room” and adapt material during the performance; and business savvy needed to network with fellow comics and industry gatekeepers. Comedians are performers as much as they are business entrepreneurs for their own brand. Negotiating these demands requires emotional capital which, like other forms of capital, is unequally distributed and identity-contingent. High levels of performances of emotional capital can inform success by ensuring good working relationships with others in the industry and developing content that will effectively elicit laughter across communities. Comics attuned to patterns of comedy patronage understand that they are selling entertainment as well as an emotional experience and learn to comply with affective dictates of this performance genre. But not all comics are compliant, nor can they be when affective demands posing as natural are meant to favor cis-gendered, heterosexual, white, able-bodied men. By contrast, Hannah Gadsby is a gender non-conforming, neurodiverse, white, lesbian stand-up comedian whose very existence in comedy venues as well as their comic material itself troubles traditional constructions of emotional capital necessary for effective comedy performance while simultaneously defying the emotions typically demanded from comic performances. They resist and are sometimes unable to deploy the kinds of emotional capital presumed necessary for securing success in the industry. Gadsby’s perceived deficiencies in emotional capital tell us much about the ascendant affective economies circulating today—in green rooms and on stages across the world.