Affectivity: A Hidden Dimension in Work Relationships

Studying the dynamics of mental health problems in the workplace, the psychopathology of work is an interdisciplinary field combining sociology & psychoanalysis. The worker's affective involvement in his/her occupation hinges on the forms of work organization & projective or defensive mental health maintenance mechanisms. Two investigations of groups of hospital nurses & primary & secondary teachers in Quebec are used to explore the individual & collective strategies used to avoid job stress or enhance job satisfaction. Results indicate three key aspects contributing to work satisfaction: recognition, independence, & authority. 16 References.