Sexual attraction is a powerful force that can influence an individual's behavior and actions. In the workplace, it can impact how employees perceive rewards, recognition, and fairness. Employees who are attracted to their superiors may feel more motivated to go above and beyond for them, leading to increased productivity and performance.
This can also create an uncomfortable environment where power dynamics become blurred.
If employees feel that they have been unfairly rewarded based on their looks rather than their skills, it can lead to resentment and reduced job satisfaction.
One study found that employees who reported being sexually attracted to their bosses were more likely to believe that their company offered equal pay opportunities for men and women. They were also less likely to report experiencing gender discrimination in the workplace. This suggests that sexual attraction can help level the playing field when it comes to fairness and equality.
It also shows that there may be a tradeoff between feeling appreciated and feeling safe in the workplace.
Another study showed that employees who received verbal praise from their supervisor were more satisfied with their jobs than those who did not. Praise was seen as a form of recognition and appreciation.
If the praise came from someone who was seen as sexually attractive, it may have made the recipient feel uneasy or even harassed. This highlights the importance of considering the context when giving out rewards and recognition.
Sexual attraction can also shape how employees view their own worth at work. If an employee feels attracted to their superior, they may perceive themselves as more valuable than they actually are. This can result in feelings of entitlement and overconfidence, which can negatively impact their work quality. On the other hand, if an employee is not sexually attracted to their superior, they may undervalue their own contribution, leading to low self-esteem and motivation.
Sexual attraction plays a complex role in shaping employees' perception of rewards, recognition, and fairness. While it can create positive feelings of belonging and appreciation, it can also lead to uncomfortable power dynamics and unfairness. Employers must balance the benefits of sexual attraction with the potential risks to create a healthy and productive work environment for all employees.
How does sexual attraction shape employees' perception of rewards, recognition, and fairness?
Employees' sexual orientation shapes their perception of rewards, recognition, and fairness because they are likely to compare themselves with others based on sexual identity. This can lead to feelings of resentment and unfair treatment if they feel that those who identify as heterosexual receive better benefits, promotions, and compensation than them. Sexual minorities may also face discrimination at work, which further reinforces these beliefs.