La felicidad en el trabajo como dispositivo de manipulación para el incremento de la productividad

Abstract

This article critically examines the growing emphasis on workplace happiness and its potential use as a manipulation tool in organizations. Happiness is a complex and ambiguous concept, with multiple definitions that make its scientific study difficult. However, it has sparked great research interest and has been linked to better organizational performance and productivity. The article analyzes whether these happiness initiatives really operate as manipulation devices. Through a content analysis in 4 companies, practices promoted in the name of happiness are identified that could constitute manipulation mechanisms such as: use of reasoning, personal charm, carryover and halo effects, good humor and rewards. The findings suggest that the pursuit of happiness can be distorted in the service of organizational agendas. It is concluded that further research and ethical application of this knowledge is required to avoid falling into manipulative practices.