There has been an increasing interest in understanding how sexual attraction between coworkers affects workplace dynamics. Specifically, researchers have explored the relationship between these types of relationships and perceptions of leadership effectiveness and authority legitimacy. This paper seeks to provide an overview of this literature and its implications for organizational behavior.
Sexual Attractions
The first question that must be addressed is what constitutes "sexual attractions" among colleagues? In general, this can refer to romantic feelings, emotional connections, physical desires, or intimate interactions. It can also include flirting, touching, kissing, or other forms of physical contact. These behaviors may occur consensually or nonconsensually and vary in intensity depending on the individuals involved. In some cases, they may be fleeting moments that are quickly forgotten, while in others, they can develop into long-term affairs.
Perceptions of Leadership Effectiveness
Studies have shown that leaders who engage in sexual relationships with their subordinates tend to face negative evaluations from their followers regarding their performance as a leader.
One study found that supervisors who had extramarital affairs with employees were perceived as less effective than those who did not have such relationships (Koys, Vaughn, & Buss, 2019). Another study found that women who engaged in sexual relationships with male colleagues experienced greater levels of harassment and discrimination at work (Ragins et al., 2007).
Authority Legitimacy
Research has found that when leaders demonstrate favoritism towards coworkers with whom they share sexual attraction, it can undermine their authority legitimacy.
Managers who promote subordinates based solely on personal attraction rather than job performance risk losing credibility among their peers (Hill, 2008).
Employees may view such promotion decisions as unfair and resentful if they feel passed over for promotions despite having superior qualifications (Erikson & Hall, 2003).
This article has presented evidence that suggests that sexual attractions between coworkers can negatively impact perceptions of leadership effectiveness and authority legitimacy. These findings suggest that organizations should take steps to prevent or manage these situations when they occur, such as through clear policies against interoffice dating and training programs aimed at reducing the potential for conflicts of interest.
Leaders should be aware of the potential consequences of favoring certain employees due to personal attraction, which can damage morale and create a sense of unfairness within the organization.
In what ways do sexual attractions among colleagues influence perceptions of leadership effectiveness and authority legitimacy?
According to research, individuals who are sexually attracted to their colleagues may perceive them as more effective leaders than those who are not (Higgins & Dipboye, 1997; LaFleur, 2018). This is likely due to several factors such as increased likability, trust, and attention from the leader (LaFleur, 2018).