Was Rachel Reeves really too emotional, or have we just got a gender issue when it comes to leadership, Anne Francke asks

If men in a professional setting have an outburst – when they’re upset, frustrated, shouty or have bursts of anger – commentary often revolves around how their fiery displays can “energise a room”. When women express emotion – be it anger, concern, frustration or even tears – it’s often portrayed as a professional liability rather than as a genuine, human reaction.

The amount of speculation and accusations that swirled around Rachel Reeves’ visibly crying in the House of Commons last week highlights the reality that powerful women are often penalised for showing emotion – whether it’s anger or vulnerability.

The penalty women pay for showing strong emotion raises some important questions: Why do women often feel they must adopt and mirror male behaviours – dress, sound and behave like men........

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