Can Smiling Really Be Hazardous?

A recent study in Germany suggests that workers whom must maintain a level of "Customer Service" may be more suceptible to illness. Psychologists at Frankfurt University have conducted an analysis of workers who are "forced" to be friendly at their jobs.

"Every time a person is forced to repress his true feelings, there are negative consequences for his health," said Professor Dieter Zapf, a researcher into human emotions.

In the end, the thesis of the study seems to be that we need to get away from the notion that the "customer is king," and treat service employees with more respect.

Not many would say that the problem with the German service industry is too much friendliness! Perhaps the real study should be why do those in this industry need to "fake" friendliness?