What professionals say and do: the tension between egalitarianism and hierarchy in interprofessional teamwork
Peer reviewed, Journal article
Published version
Date
2023Metadata
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- Publikasjoner fra Cristin [3362]
- SAM - Institutt for sosialfag [480]
Original version
10.1080/13561820.2023.2289512Abstract
This study aimed to explore the power dynamics in interprofessional teamwork by conducting an
ethnographic study of three interprofessional teams working in mental health and substance use services
in Norway. Data were collected through 14 observation sessions and 18 in-depth interviews with health
and social work professionals. Given the potential difference between “what people say and what people
do,” we explored how ideas of power were articulated by health and social care professionals and how
such structures were observed to be played out in practice. The findings suggest a presence of contrast-
ing egalitarian and hierarchical structures, and that professionals were aware of the resulting tension and
operated within it. This study contributes to the literature on interprofessional health and social care
through providing an analysis of the power dynamics of teamwork interaction and how professionals
relate to such structures. The results are relevant to a broad context of interprofessionalism as they
provide valuable insight into how power should be understood as a continuum of changeable positions
and motivations.