The term "workplace" refers to an environment where people interact and collaborate in order to accomplish tasks related to a particular field of expertise. It can refer to any location, including offices, factories, laboratories, hospitals, schools, universities, restaurants, etc. Workplaces have their own unique set of rules, traditions, and expectations that shape how employees behave towards one another. These include dress codes, language usage, schedules, deadlines, communication styles, hierarchy, leadership styles, and more. As such, workplace norms influence emotional expression and interpersonal behavior in various ways. In this article, we will explore the relationship between workplace norms and emotional expression/interpersonal behavior from three different perspectives: individual, group, and organizational.
Individual Perspective
In terms of individual perspective, workplace norms influence emotional expression and interpersonal behavior because they create boundaries around what is considered acceptable or unacceptable behavior within the organization.
Some organizations may frown upon public displays of affection among coworkers or excessive complaining about personal matters during working hours. This can lead individuals to suppress certain emotions and avoid expressing them openly for fear of being judged or penalized by their peers or superiors. Moreover, workplace norms can also reinforce stereotypes about gender roles and sexual orientation, which can further limit the range of emotions individuals feel comfortable displaying at work.
Group Perspective
From a group perspective, workplace norms can affect how members interact with each other emotionally and socially.
If an organization encourages teamwork and collaboration but does not provide adequate resources or support for these activities, employees may become frustrated and demoralized over time. This can lead to tension and conflict within teams, which can negatively impact productivity and morale.
If an organization has a strict hierarchical structure where subordinates are expected to defer to their superiors without question, it can discourage creativity and innovation since workers may feel afraid to voice dissenting opinions or challenge authority figures.
Organizational Perspective
On an organizational level, workplace norms can shape culture, values, and attitudes towards emotions in general. If an organization prioritizes profit maximization above all else, for example, it may encourage workers to suppress negative feelings such as anger or sadness that could interfere with achieving business goals. Alternatively, companies that promote employee well-being through benefits like mental health days or flexible scheduling may create more conducive environments for authentic expression of emotions among staff members.
Understanding how workplace norms influence emotional expression/interpersonal behavior is crucial for creating healthy, sustainable organizations that foster positive relationships between colleagues.
How do workplace norms influence emotional expression and interpersonal behavior?
Workplace norms are rules and standards that employees must follow within an organization's culture. These norms can have both positive and negative effects on emotion regulation and interpersonal behavior in the workplace. On one hand, they may help employees understand what is expected of them and how to behave in certain situations.