Subordination is an essential part of organizational structure, where employees are expected to follow orders from superiors without questioning their authority.
Interpersonal bonds between individuals can create unseen forces that undermine this order, leading to the collapse of subordination. This phenomenon is often observed in close relationships, such as friendships, romantic partnerships, or family ties, but it can also occur within workplace units. When people feel a sense of connection with each other, they tend to disregard their official roles and hierarchies, making it challenging for managers to maintain control. In this article, I will discuss how interpersonal bonds lead to the weakening of subordination and what invisible dynamics drive this process.
Interpersonal Bonds
Interpersonal bonds refer to the emotional connections that individuals form through shared experiences, mutual respect, trust, and empathy. These bonds are usually built on positive interactions and understanding, creating an environment where people feel safe, heard, and valued. The strength of these bonds depends on several factors, including physical proximity, shared goals, and communication patterns.
Interpersonal bonds develop into deep-rooted relationships that go beyond professional or personal duties, shaping behavior and attitudes.
Erosion of Subordination
The erosion of subordination occurs when interpersonal bonds take precedence over formal power structures. Employees may start ignoring directives from their superiors, refusing to comply with rules, or taking advantage of their position to benefit themselves or others. This process is not always intentional, but it happens naturally due to human nature's desire for companionship and social acceptance. Individuals who perceive no threat from authority figures may even undermine them by subtle actions like gossiping or sabotage.
Unseen Dynamics
Several unseen dynamics can contribute to the breakdown of subordination within a unit. One factor is a lack of clear boundaries between personal and professional lives, which creates confusion about roles and responsibilities. When employees interact outside work hours, they blur lines, making it difficult to maintain a hierarchical relationship during working hours. Another dynamic is the fear of losing face if someone disagrees with a superior, leading to silence or passive-aggressive behavior.
Individuals may engage in self-preservation tactics, such as protecting teammates from repercussions or hiding information from managers to avoid being reprimanded.
Interpersonal bonds are essential for building strong teams and fostering collaboration, but they can also be detrimental to organizational structure. Managers must understand these invisible dynamics to prevent erosion and promote a healthy working environment where everyone feels valued. By recognizing the effects of interpersonal relationships on subordination, leaders can create policies that support both employee needs and business goals.
How may interpersonal bonds within a unit contribute to the erosion of subordination, and what invisible dynamics drive this process?
Interpersonal bonds within a unit can contribute to the erosion of subordination when individuals within the unit develop strong relationships with each other that are based on mutual respect, trust, and loyalty. This can lead to increased communication between members of the unit, which allows them to share their ideas and opinions openly and honestly without fear of repercussions.