Can sexual relationships generate pressures that compromise fairness, objectivity, or professional ethics?
Sexual relationships can generate pressures that may be difficult to handle.
It is possible for one person to manage such pressures well without affecting their work. In general, there are three kinds of pressures. First, the pressure of maintaining good relations between partners; second, managing different views about what is right or wrong in terms of public morality; and third, avoiding conflicts of interest.
Maintaining Good Relationships
People might want to keep the relationship secret because they fear negative consequences if others find out. This may lead them to feel that it would be better not to say something controversial for fear of jeopardizing their job, especially when both parties belong to the same organization. If this happens, it may become more difficult to express opinions openly during meetings or disagree with someone's proposal.
An employee who has been dating another co-worker for some time may feel that they cannot contradict the other's position in a meeting, even if they have valid reasons to do so. The pressure of keeping the relationship private could create tension among colleagues and make working together uncomfortable.
Moral Conflicts
Another challenge is dealing with differences in moral values. Some people believe that sex outside marriage is sinful while others think otherwise. It may be hard to know how to respond when asked about personal matters related to sex, especially when discussing things like contraception or birth control. Someone who believes strongly in abstinence before marriage may also find it challenging to talk about these issues at all.
Avoiding Conflicts of Interest
Sexual relationships can pose problems for businesses. Suppose a manager dates a subordinate who receives special treatment. This could put them in trouble with their boss or superiors, as well as compromise professional integrity. Similarly, if one partner's company offers preferential contracts to its employees' significant others, there might be allegations of corruption. The partner's company should not benefit from the relationship unless they earned it through merit alone.
Can sexual relationships generate pressures that compromise fairness, objectivity, or professional ethics?
The pressure of the power dynamic is always present in any romantic relationship. People who are in authority positions tend to see themselves as more important than their subordinates. When one individual has this kind of mentality, it can create an imbalance between them and another colleague. This disparity can lead to unethical behavior when they believe they have leverage over someone else.