Affective economies is a concept from Sara Ahmed that describes how emotions circulate within institutions and communities, shaping relationships, decisions, and power dynamics. Rather than belonging only to individuals, emotions such as fear, frustration, sympathy, or suspicion can move through systems and become attached to certain people, identities, or behaviours. These emotional currents influence how situations are interpreted and how individuals are treated. In education contexts, affective economies can shape how parents, students, and staff are perceived. For example, expressions of concern or urgency from families may be interpreted as hostility, while institutional discomfort or defensiveness can influence responses to complaints. Over time, these emotional patterns can reinforce existing hierarchies and expectations. Understanding affective economies helps explain why conflicts sometimes escalate and why certain voices are welcomed while others are treated with caution or resistance.