Which sociologist is credited with the concept of feeling rules?

The concept of feeling rules, which refers to the social guidelines that dictate how individuals should feel in various situations, is credited to Arlie Hochschild. Through her work in emotional sociology, particularly in her book "The Managed Heart," Hochschild explored how emotions are not just personal experiences but are influenced by societal expectations.

She distinguished between "surface acting" and "deep acting," illustrating how individuals often modify their emotions to meet social norms—especially in contexts like the workplace. This concept is essential for understanding how emotions are shaped by social context and cultural expectations, making it a significant contribution to sociological thought. This focus on the interplay between individual feelings and societal norms distinguishes Hochschild's work and cements her relevance in discussions of emotion and sociology.