Dirty Work

Dirty Work profiles a number of occupations that society deems tainted. The volume vivid, ethnographic reports focuses on the communication that helps workers manage the moral, social, and physical stains that derive from engaging in such occupations. The creative ways that those who perform such dirty work learn to communicate - and with outsiders - regulates the negative aspects of the work itself and emphases the positives so that workers can maintain a sense of self-value even while performing devalued occupations.