What differentiates tunctional from dysfunction emotions at work? While there is no precise answer to this it' s been suggested that the critical moderating variable is the complexity of the individual' s task. The more complex a task, the lower the level of arousal that can be tolerated without interfering with performance. While a certain minimal level of arousal is probably necessary for good performance, very high levels interfere with the ability to function, especially if the job requires calculator and detailed cognitive processes. Given that the trend is toward jobs becoming more complex you can see why organizations are likely to go to considerable efforts to discourage the overt display of emotions-especially intense ones -in the workplace.