Building a professional identity despite challenging working conditions: retail apprentices in Algeria

Budaud K.

This article analyzes the working conditions experienced by retail trainees during their education and how these working conditions influence the formation of professional identity. We propose to explore, through qualitative survey based on observations, interviews and group discussions, how students learn and what role working conditions play in their identification with work. The analysis identified four aspects that the students faced: work intensity, time availability combined with socioeconomic insecurity, company social relationships, and customer relationships.

Keywords:Professional education, working conditions, socialization, vocational identity.