In today's workplace environment, it is common for employers to make changes that impact employee teams, including through reassignments and restructuring. One area that can be particularly affected is interpersonal relationships between team members, especially those who were previously close emotionally. This can lead to psychological effects such as feelings of loss, confusion, betrayal, and even depression.
One major factor contributing to these emotional responses is the attachment bonds that may have been formed between coworkers. According to attachment theory, individuals form strong emotional connections with others based on their availability, responsiveness, and reliability. When one person is no longer available or reliable, it can trigger an internal response that leads to negative feelings.
Reassignment and restructuring often create uncertainty about the future, which can cause anxiety and stress. This is known as cognitive dissonance.
Imagine two colleagues who worked closely together on a project for several months. They developed a deep connection and felt comfortable sharing personal information.
When one person was suddenly transferred to another department, they became estranged from each other. The remaining individual may feel abandoned, distressed, and unsure about what to do without their friend around. They may also experience a sense of loss, grief, and loneliness.
Another potential psychological effect is decreased productivity. When employees are separated from colleagues they trust and rely on, they may struggle to adjust to new working conditions. This can result in reduced motivation, focus, and overall performance. It can also lead to social withdrawal, as people avoid interactions with unfamiliar colleagues out of fear of being rejected. This can further impact morale and teamwork, causing a vicious cycle of negativity.
The separation of emotionally close coworkers through reassignment or restructuring can have significant psychological effects that must be considered by employers. By understanding these issues, companies can take steps to minimize their impact and support affected employees during this transition period.
What psychological effects arise when emotionally close colleagues are separated by reassignment or restructuring?
There is evidence that the separation of emotionally close coworkers can have significant psychological consequences for both parties. The most common effect may be increased stress levels due to feelings of loss, loneliness, and anxiety. Individuals may experience changes in mood and energy levels, as well as physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.