ABSTRACT
This chapter explores instances, experiences and firsthand accounts of those who have struggled to cope with the pain and toxicity of organisational life. It outlines an argument that positions emotional pain as an inevitable by-product of organisational life. The chapter illustrates some examples in which emotional pain has transformed into emotional toxicity. It explores the emotion management practices of those whom have identified as toxin handlers from data through the lens of both informal and formal toxin-handling approaches. The chapter focuses on the role that particular individuals within all organisations play in mitigating, preventing and helping to process the emotional pain that occurs as a natural by-product of organisational life. It concludes with firsthand accounts of some of the methods of coping with repeated exposure to emotional pain and some of the potential consequences for those who take on the role of toxin handler.
