Volunteering and identity formation: reflections from the Psychodynamics of Work

Abstract

The Psychodynamics of Work brought considerable advances in the discussions about the world of work, considering its centrality in the formation of the identity of the subject. Based on the definition of work by Dejours, which is understood as a concept beyond the salary or employment relationship, it is argued that this constitution of identity is not only found in paid work, which is characteristic of capitalist organizations, but can also be observed in voluntary work. Based on the assumptions of authors relevant to Work Psychodynamics and several theoretical and empirical studies on volunteering, the intent is to reflect on the conceptual alignments that can be observed between the conception of the central role of work in the formation of identity and the subjective rewards identified in voluntary service.

Keywords

• psychodynamics of work
• identity
• volunteering