Relationships are built upon mutual trust between two people, which is often influenced by many factors such as communication, emotional intimacy, consistency, honesty, transparency, loyalty, etc.
When it comes to hierarchical constraints that put one individual above another within an organization or social group, relational authenticity becomes an essential factor in building and maintaining trust. Authenticity refers to being true to oneself, being honest about one's thoughts and feelings, and acting consistent with one's values and beliefs. Relational authenticity involves being transparent and open in all aspects of the relationship, sharing one's vulnerabilities, opinions, and desires without fear of judgment or rejection. It means accepting the other person for who they are, even if there are differences in power dynamics or authority levels. In this case study, I will discuss how relational authenticity influences trust under hierarchical constraints in a workplace setting.
In the workplace, employees may feel pressured to act according to their superiors' expectations, leading to a loss of self-identity and autonomy. This can lead to distrust, mistrust, and resentment towards their leaders. On the other hand, if leaders demonstrate relational authenticity by being open, honest, and approachable, employees are more likely to trust them and follow their leadership. Leaders must create a safe environment where employees can express themselves freely, share their ideas and concerns, and engage in meaningful dialogue. Employees also need to learn to be authentic in their interactions with each other, acknowledging their limitations and strengths, appreciating each other's contributions, and working together collaboratively towards common goals.
Relational authenticity is not always easy to achieve in hierarchical settings due to cultural norms that promote conformity and obedience. Some individuals may fear losing their jobs or social status if they challenge the hierarchy or speak up against unfair practices. As a result, they may hide their true thoughts and feelings, creating a sense of dishonesty and inauthenticity within the organization.
It is crucial to recognize the importance of relational authenticity in building trust under hierarchical constraints. Leaders should model authenticity through their actions, words, and decisions, while employees should seek ways to express themselves authentically without compromising their values or integrity. By fostering an environment of mutual respect, trust, and communication, organizations can improve productivity, innovation, and employee satisfaction.
How does relational authenticity influence trust under hierarchical constraints?
Relational authenticity refers to the extent of one's true self that is conveyed when interacting with others. In hierarchical contexts where power differentials exist between individuals, relational authenticity can affect trust in various ways. One way in which this occurs is through the perception of genuineness and transparency in communication. When individuals feel as though they are being treated as equals and have access to information about each other's intentions and motives, it increases their sense of trust.