When it comes to allocating tasks among team members, many employers believe that assigning more work to those who are already working hard may not be fair.
There is another factor at play. According to research published in the Journal of Applied Psychology, employees' romantic partners can have an impact on how they perceive their workloads. Specifically, employees who are happy in their relationships tend to think that their bosses treat them fairly when assigning extra responsibilities, while those who feel dissatisfied with their personal lives tend to see unfairness in even small increases in workload.
In one study, participants were asked about their perceptions of workplace fairness after receiving feedback from supervisors regarding their performance. Those whose partners were supportive and understanding reported higher levels of job satisfaction than those whose partners provided little emotional support. Similarly, employees who felt secure in their relationship with their partner tended to have lower stress levels than those who felt less confident in their bond.
The findings suggest that intimate relationships could play a significant role in employee attitudes toward fairness at work. Individuals in happy, fulfilling relationships may be more likely to see their managers as just and fair in their allocation of resources, while those struggling with personal issues may perceive injustice in even minor changes to their workloads. Employees should therefore strive for a healthy balance between their professional and private lives, as this can help them maintain a positive outlook on both fronts.
This article has explored the ways in which intimate relationships affect employee perceptions of fairness in workload allocation. Research suggests that individuals in happier relationships tend to feel more valued by their employers and less stressed overall, leading them to view any additional tasks as evidence of fair treatment rather than overburdening. Conversely, those struggling with personal problems may see even small shifts in their workload as evidence of unfair treatment, potentially undermining their engagement and productivity. It is therefore crucial for employers to recognize these dynamics and provide opportunities for employees to balance their professional and personal lives.
How do intimate relationships affect employee perceptions of fairness in workload allocation?
### Intimate relationships can have both positive and negative impacts on employees' perceptions of fairness in workload allocation. On one hand, close personal connections with colleagues may lead individuals to view themselves as part of a shared community where everyone contributes equally to team goals, which can increase motivation and job satisfaction and promote feelings of justice.