Sexual attraction is an intense emotional, physical, or psychological desire for another person, often involving romantic or passionate feelings. It can influence how people perceive others' actions, behaviors, and beliefs, including those related to management styles and business practices. In this article, I will explore the relationship between sexual attraction and managers' perceptions of their subordinates' workplace behavior, focusing on whether it affects their views of fairness and ethics.
When someone finds another person attractive, they may have positive feelings about them that can interfere with objective decision-making.
If a manager has a crush on one employee, they might be more likely to give them preferential treatment than other employees who are equally deserving. This could lead to resentment among other workers and a lack of trust in the company's policies.
Managers who harbor feelings of lust toward subordinates may feel pressured to act unethically, such as making promises they cannot keep or engaging in illegal activities like sexual harassment.
Some studies suggest that sexual attraction can actually improve performance by creating a sense of loyalty and commitment. Employees who feel valued by their supervisor may be more motivated to go above and beyond their job requirements, leading to increased productivity and profitability for the organization.
Managers who show interest in employees' personal lives may create a supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable expressing themselves fully.
There is also evidence that this type of involvement can backfire if it crosses professional boundaries into inappropriate territory.
While sexual attraction may influence how managers perceive certain behaviors, it does not necessarily dictate their judgment of overall fairness or ethics. It is important for leaders to maintain clear boundaries between personal and professional relationships to ensure all staff members receive equal opportunities and treatment. By fostering an open dialogue around these issues, organizations can promote healthy communication and prevent misunderstandings that could damage morale and performance.
How do sexual attractions affect perceptions of managerial fairness and ethical behavior?
Research has shown that both men and women who are heterosexual perceive managers who they find sexually attractive as more likely to behave in an unethical manner than those who are not sexually attracted (e. g. , Dipboye et al. , 1996; Driskell & John, 2008).