Prazer, sofrimento e estratégias de defesa no trabalho: um estudo com artesãos alagoanos

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the perception of artisans from Alagoas about pleasure and suffering at work and strategies for dealing with such experiences, based on the Psychodynamics of Work. As for the methodology, this research is classified as qualitative, descriptive and is field research, using documentary analysis, anonymous semi-structured interviews and field diary support, as well as software for transcribing audio into text and to assist in categorical content analysis by Bardin (2016). Artisans from the Maceió/AL Crafts Market were interviewed, selected based on the typicality criterion, as they were highly representative for the research context and using the snowball method. Among other aspects, the results revealed, regarding the work context, that the spaces are not standardized, do not have furniture or ergonomically correct conditions, many artisans develop their pieces in the exhibition boxes, but the majority also work at home, and despite some processes are painful, the use of PPE - Personal Protective Equipment was not identified. The location of the Market was highlighted as a problem that compromises customer visits, the work is predominantly carried out on a seasonal basis, there is difficulty in accessing working capital and raw materials in Alagoas, creating a context that demands effort to continue the work. Despite this reality, in terms of pleasure at work, craft work is considered therapy, something that artisans love, which produces feelings of gratification and pride, being seen as a refuge and helping them overcome depression and anxiety. However, in terms of suffering at work, the appreciation of handicrafts by customers who are local residents is considered scarce, and there was mention that some typologies are more valued than others, with challenges reported in maintaining the handicraft tradition, in addition to several problems physical, emotional, and in socio-professional relationships, generating in many the attitude of working in an isolated and individual way instead of collectively. Public policies were a controversial issue, seen by some as insufficient and by others as being in a positive phase. Regarding defense strategies at work, positive thoughts stood out, followed by faith and spirituality, and are classified as individual and not collective defense mechanisms. Based on the results achieved, a technical/technological product was proposed, namely, a round table to be held annually, to update demands and measures for the craft sector.