Vivências subjetivas de trabalhadores de um Centro de Atenção Psicossocial: a partir da perspectiva da Psicodinâmica do Trabalho

Abstract

Work Psychodynamics understands work as one of the main ways for individuals to constitute themselves and build their own identity. This theoretical framework was chosen for the research because it presents concepts such as recognition, individual and collective defensive strategies, and work relationships, which supported the research. The present study aims to understand the subjective experiences of workers at a Psychosocial Care Center (CAPS) from the perspective of Work Psychodynamics. The study was conducted at a CAPS in the city of Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, with nine participants, including professionals and managers, from September to October 2023. Individual open interviews were conducted, as well as a period of observation with field notes. Data collection was recorded and transcribed by the researcher. The research was approved by the Research Ethics Committee under the number 71504623.6.0000.5317, and the data was analyzed using Bardin’s content analysis. The collected data was divided into four categories: Relationships: cooperation within the team and conflict with management; Defensive strategies: collective affection and individual distraction as a way to cope with suffering; Recognition as a promoter of subjective mobilization; and Work and the possibility of constructing a subjective identity. The results show that workers exhibit relationships of affection, care, and kindness among the team; however, the relationship with municipal management is conflictual and autocratic, with authoritarian decisions and communication difficulties. Regarding collective defensive strategies, most workers reported using moments of distraction, conversations, and mutual care among themselves. As for individual defensive strategies, participants reported using distraction and disconnecting from work when they are at home. In the category of recognition, participants noted that they perceive recognition from users and their families; however, there is no recognition from municipal management, leading to feelings of devaluation and powerlessness. Finally, the last category identified workers’ difficulty in reflecting on their identity process, attributing work to the tasks performed. Although the work demands are demanding, they are manageable and do not cause explicit suffering for the workers. The relationship with municipal management was identified as the main source of suffering and distress among the participants.