Relações entre perfis de auditores-fiscais do trabalho e o ceticismo profissional na fiscalização da aprendizagem profissional

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the relationship between the personal, professional, and educational characteristics of Labor Inspectors (AFTs) and their level of professional skepticism in enforcing compliance with the minimum legal quota for professional apprenticeships. Based on the concept of professional skepticism proposed by Hurtt (2010), the study adopts an exploratory and descriptive methodological approach with a quantitative focus. Initially, action research was carried out, leveraging the researcher's professional role as an AFT, to identify elements relevant to the development of the data collection instrument. This qualitative stage supported the development of the survey questionnaire, ensuring greater alignment with the empirical context of apprenticeship inspection. The sample consisted of 59 AFTs from various regions of the country, allowing for a diverse characterization of the participants' profiles. The data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), using validated scales to measure professional skepticism and interprofessional collaboration. The results indicated that interprofessional collaboration is the variable with the greatest most substantial and statistically significant positive influence on professional skepticism, while factors such as length of service, time in public service, and academic background showed no meaningful impact. The study contributes to the advancement of knowledge around labor inspecting auditing, in addition to enriching the academic debate on professional skepticism in the public sector. The findings also align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially targets 4.4 and 8.6, by highlighting the strategic role of AFTs in promoting decent work and the productive inclusion of young people.