Mediation of agency in teamwork: the construction gang as a potential collective frame for handling physical strain and pain.

In this contribution we examine the potentials of the construction gang as a frame for collegial handling of physical strain and pain in work. On a framework viewing social inclusion and a positive professional identity as dependent on the display of meaningful agency within the gang (team), we employ a methodological composition of questions to capture construction worker’ sense of agency in relation to handling physical strain and pain, and furthermore seek to understand expectations towards alternative forms of agency, than the forms usually employed. In this investigation we draw upon a questionnaire-study conducted among 519 construction workers from four professions. In conclusion we find that while the construction gang might pose a potential for developing a collegiate framework for handling physical pain and strain in ways that lead to less deterioration through work, this resource seems currently untapped.