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Resistance to teamworking in a UK research and development laboratory

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  • Denise Thursfield

Abstract

This article presents an ethnographic exploration of resistance to teamworking in a UK research and development laboratory named RDL. It focuses on the nature of autonomy and responsibility and the implications for resistance. It finds that resistance is shaped by the laboratory technicians’ individualistic interactions with technology, the laboratory layout and the technicians’ desire for personal task-related autonomy and individual responsibility rather than team-based accountability. However, although resistance is linked to an individualistic interpretation of work it is supported by collective collusion. The article also finds that resistance is not necessarily anti-work. It is simultaneously oriented towards the interests of the company and individual technicians through the technicians’ desire to perform their job well. Finally, the article demonstrates the local and constructed nature of resistance.

Suggested Citation

  • Denise Thursfield, 2015. "Resistance to teamworking in a UK research and development laboratory," Work, Employment & Society, British Sociological Association, vol. 29(6), pages 989-1006, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:woemps:v:29:y:2015:i:6:p:989-1006
    DOI: 10.1177/0950017014559967
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Arne L. Kalleberg, 2001. "Organizing Flexibility: The Flexible Firm in a New Century," British Journal of Industrial Relations, London School of Economics, vol. 39(4), pages 479-504, December.
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