Individual resilience, pleasure, and suffering at work and organizational links: reflections and perspectives of research for the public sector

Abstract

The Brazilian public sector is peculiar, given its idiosyncrasies and problems. This work environment directly affects people and can be experienced as a source of pleasure or suffering, depending on how the subject-worker perceives and adapts, which has been analyzed based on the concept of individual resilience. The level of resilience can influence how and why individuals are connected to the organizations where they work. Academic researchers and market professionals have examined these issues since they impact workers’ health and organizational performance. In this theoretical essay, the three themes (Individual resilience; Pleasure and suffering at work; Organizational links) are presented. Also, the study offers an integrative model that allows a broader and deeper view of the phenomena and their possible interrelations, raising hypotheses that can guide future studies. A future research agenda, including methodological aspects, is proposed to stimulate epistemological possibilities and varied research perspectives.

Keywords:
Individual resilience; Pleasure and suffering at work; Organizational links; Public sector