Effects of surface acting on exhaustion of Korean school counselors

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of surface acting on exhaustion in Korean school counselors. Using the daily diary method with 223 school counselors, the study examined how maintaining a positive outward image through surface acting is related to job exhaustion. The results indicated that surface acting at both Level 1 and Level 2 positively affects exhaustion. Additionally, a supportive administrative climate negatively predicted exhaustion. Interestingly, the relationship between surface acting and exhaustion was found to be more pronounced when administrators were perceived as highly supportive, whereas this relationship was attenuated in the context of low administrative support. These findings highlight the complexity of emotional labor and the crucial role of administrative support in the well‐being of school counselors. Future research should further explore these dynamics to develop effective strategies for reducing burnout among school counselors.