Att klä av sig makten? : En kvalitativ undersökning om kläders betydelse för socialarbetare

Sammanfattning: The aim of this study examines how two groups of social workers at two workplaces reflect to their own clothes in various work situations. We want to gain an understanding of the variables that affects social workers choice of clothes at work. In a qualitative approach the study is based on two focus group-interviews and four semi structured interviews. Empirically analyzes relate to Pierre Bourdieu’s "la distinction, Ervin Goffman’s "frontstage-backstage", and of Michele Foucault’s power concepts. The result indicates that the participants had similar views concerning the meaning and impact of clothes in work contexts, especially when consulting clients. Their clothes seem to emphasis their power positions related to the client, but the clothing might also contribute to losses of credibility’s in the profession. To avoid the interference of their clothing in meetings with clients, the participant’s dresses in clothes that avoid power symbols or lack but emphasize professionalism. The participants try to choose their clothes with regards to a client perspective, and are striving to meet clients with respect and professionalism.