Psychosocial factors at work in industries in the countryside of São Paulo.

INTRODUCTION

The literature highlights psychosocial factors at work as major causes of increased occupational stress. These factors are also associated with musculoskeletal disorders and mental and behavioral issues among workers.

Objectives

To describe and analyze the relationships between management characteristics and psychosocial factors at work, as perceived by industrial workers, and their impact on increased work-related stress.

METHODS

This is a case study with a qualitative approach, using in-depth interviews and participant observation during fieldwork.

RESULTS

The 5 companies studied predominantly employed a Taylorist production model. Rigid hierarchical management was observed, as well as encouragement of competitiveness among workers, poorly trained leadership, and insufficient investment in training and Occupational Health and Safety. Additionally, there was a disregard for psychosocial factors that can trigger stress and illness.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrated that, irrespective of the specific industrial activity, the primary psychosocial factors at work were overwork, lack of autonomy and control over tasks, lack of social support, lack of career planning and recognition, poor communication, and psychological abuse, including moral harassment. The findings suggest that organizational management should focus on actions to prevent psychosocial factors at work in order to promote workers' well-being.