Sexual attraction plays an important role in human behavior, including in workplace settings. When individuals are attracted to one another, they tend to perceive each other more positively than when there is no attraction present. This positive perception can influence their evaluation of various factors related to organizational life, such as fairness, equity, and procedural justice.
Fairness refers to treating people equally and ensuring that everyone has access to resources, opportunities, and privileges. Equity involves providing equal rewards for equivalent contributions and eliminating disparities in pay, promotions, and other forms of compensation based on gender, race, age, ethnicity, religion, disability, etc. Procedural justice means following established rules and procedures consistently and avoiding biases, prejudices, and discrimination. Sexual attraction can affect these concepts in several ways.
When individuals find someone sexually attractive, they may be more likely to attribute positive qualities to them, such as being intelligent, hardworking, or capable. This can lead them to see that person as deserving of rewards or special treatment, even if others have contributed just as much or more to the organization's success. In addition, sexual attraction can cloud judgement, leading individuals to ignore unfair behaviors or excuse them because of the attraction. This can create a sense of favoritism that undermines the principles of fairness, equity, and procedural justice.
Sexual attraction can influence the way individuals communicate with each other. When people feel drawn to each other romantically or sexually, they are more likely to engage in flirting, teasing, and other playful behavior. This type of interaction is often perceived positively and encouraged, even if it violates organizational norms or policies.
This can also lead to tensions and resentment among colleagues who do not share the same feelings.
Sexual attraction can distort perceptions of fairness, equity, and procedural justice in organizations by creating biased evaluations, excusing unethical behavior, and fostering unequal communication patterns. While some level of attraction is natural and normal, excessive attention and favoritism based on personal preference should be discouraged to maintain a healthy work environment. Organizations should take steps to ensure impartiality and transparency in decision-making processes to avoid these problems.
How does sexual attraction affect the perception of fairness, equity, and procedural justice in organizations?
Sexual attraction can influence how individuals perceive fairness, equity, and procedural justice within an organization. Studies have shown that employees who feel attracted to their superiors are more likely to view them as being fairer than those who do not feel attracted to them.