PROFESSIONAL RECOGNITION IN PSYCHODYNAMICS: INTERFACES WITH MENTAL HEALTH AND PRODUCTIVITY FROM A WORK PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Introduction: According to Dejours' (1992) Psychodynamics of Work, professional recognition is fundamental, as work is seen not only as a means of subsistence but also as a space for constructing identity, meaning, and personal fulfillment. However, a lack of recognition can cause suffering, demotivation, and mental illness. In the Psychodynamics of Work, recognition should go beyond material rewards, including ethical and symbolic validation by the group and superiors. Objective: To understand how professional recognition, understood as symbolic and concrete validation of the worker's actions, interferes with the mental health and productivity of individuals, in light of the assumptions of the Psychodynamics of Work. Methodology: This is a qualitative literature review that sought to gather, analyze, and synthesize scientific productions on the interface between professional recognition, mental health, and productivity at work, in light of the Psychodynamics of Work. Data collection was carried out using books, dissertations, theses, and scientific articles indexed in databases such as SciELO, CAPES journals, and Google Scholar, restricted to the period from 2015 to 2025 and to the Portuguese and English languages. Standardized descriptors were used, such as "Psychodynamics of Work," "mental health," "well-being at work," "productivity at work," and "employee appreciation," according to DeCS. Conclusion: Professional recognition is essential for mental balance and productivity, and humanized and valuing work environments preserve mental health and strengthen motivation, engagement, and organizational results, highlighting the relevance of the Psychodynamics of Work as a framework for integrated and effective management practices.