This theoretical study aims to correlate the discussion about interdisciplinary teamwork in public health institutions with the key concepts of contemporary philosopher Axel Honneth with regards to what he called the Struggle for Recognition. We start by revising the notion of subject in Honneth's theory, especially based on his dialogue with Donald Winnicott's psychoanalysis. We highlight that this subject is eminently social; its constitution depends on the recognition of others regarding its otherness and the legitimacy of its belonging to a social group. Next, we show that this recognition occurs through a process of struggle, which is essential for developing the capacity to love and to relate to others. We then argue that the work in interdisciplinary teams can be configured as a potent space for the recognition of professionals, as discussed by Honneth. Teams may thus facilitate the development of creative work and innovations in the organization of care provided to patients.
patient care team; professional-patient relations; interdisciplinarity; intersubjectivity; Axel Honneth