Sofrimento silencioso: análise psicodinâmica do trabalho de suinocultores

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the experiences of pleasure and suffering of pig farmers and to characterize the organization of work in this field and to understand the defensive strategies used by these workers in dealing with their suffering. The study had a qualitative research design that was done with 16 pig farmers between the ages of 19 and 67 years old (M: 45,8; DP: 13). The collection of data came from two focus groups as well as observations of the work with pigs. The data obtained was subjected to content analysis and described mixed categories. The pleasure of working in pig farming is related to maintaining the family tradition of working with pigs, financial return tied to the family subsistence, and care of the animals. In contrast and most notably what stood out regarding the suffering experiences was the overload of work, which resulted in complete fatigue. The suffering is also intensified by the lack of recognition of their work and the social prejudice related to pig farming. To deal with these experiences the workers make use of defensive strategies guided by the denial of pain and rationalization, exacerbating the symptoms of work-related illnesses. In accordance with the results obtained, we conclude that the pig farmers observed by us live in precarious work conditions that culminate in overburden for them. Consequently was concluded that their lifestyle is damaging their physical and mental health, such as frequent injuries and accidents, chronic pain, social isolation, anxiety and stress.