Sexualization is defined as the act of treating someone or something as if they were a sexual object, or attributing human characteristics to nonhuman objects in a way that departs from reality. It often involves making people feel awkward or uncomfortable through physical or verbal acts, and it may involve a power imbalance between those who are sexually objectified and those who are doing the objectifying. This can lead to social exclusion, as victims may be rejected or ostracized by their peers for being different than expected.
In workgroups, sexualized behavior can take many forms, including flirtation, sexual harassment, gossip about others' sex lives, and even just talking about personal matters such as dating and marriage. When these behaviors become excessive, they can create an atmosphere of discomfort and unease, leading to social exclusion.
Employees might avoid certain coworkers because of their tendency to talk too much about sex, or they might ignore them altogether. In extreme cases, they could even get fired for creating a hostile work environment.
Sexualized behavior can also foster inclusion within workgroups. Some workers might find comfort in sharing intimate details about their love lives with colleagues, and this can help create a sense of camaraderie and trust. They may feel more comfortable opening up about difficult topics like money issues, family problems, or personal struggles when they know that their coworkers will understand what they are going through.
Workers who share a common interest in sexuality may have a stronger bond than those who don't.
To prevent sexualization from causing social exclusion, employers should provide clear guidelines on what is acceptable behavior at work. They should also train managers and supervisors on how to handle complaints of harassment or discrimination related to sexuality. Employees need to learn how to respect each other's boundaries, both physical and emotional, and avoid oversharing personal information unless it is necessary for work purposes.
Everyone needs to be aware of the potential consequences of ignoring sexualized behavior - it could lead to social isolation or even violence.
In what ways can sexualized behavior foster social exclusion or inclusion within workgroups?
Sexualized behaviors such as harassment, flirting, and discriminatory remarks may lead to negative perceptions of an individual and can contribute to their social exclusion from certain workgroups. On the other hand, positive and appropriate interactions between coworkers may promote inclusiveness and build stronger relationships. Studies show that individuals who experience high levels of inclusion at work are more likely to be satisfied with their job and perform better than those who feel isolated.