Sexual attraction can lead to many things between people who work together. It can cause favoritism, alliances, and even interpersonal competition. This is because sexual attraction creates an emotional bond that can lead to favoring one person over another in terms of job responsibilities, promotions, pay raises, and other opportunities. It also leads to secrecy and backstabbing behavior. Let's explore how this happens.
When someone feels attracted to another person, they may start spending more time with them than necessary for work purposes. This could include sharing personal stories, having long conversations after hours, or going out to lunch or dinner outside the office. These activities build trust and loyalty between the two people. In some cases, this can lead to one person feeling like they have a special relationship with the other, which can make them feel more entitled to certain benefits or rewards.
Favoritism can happen when a manager or supervisor shows preference for the employee they are attracted to, giving them better assignments or promotions than others. This can create resentment among co-workers and lead to interpersonal competition as employees vie for their boss's attention.
Favoritism can lead to a lack of accountability and poor decision-making, as the favored employee may not be held to the same standards as everyone else.
Alliances can form between colleagues who share mutual feelings for each other. They may begin to confide in each other and protect each other from criticism or scrutiny by other team members. This can lead to a breakdown of communication and cohesion within the group as information is kept secret and allies become cliquey.
Interpersonal competition can occur when two employees vie for the attention of a third person who has been sexually attracted to both of them. This can create an awkward dynamic where they compete for attention and validation, leading to tension and animosity. It can also lead to jealousy, which can manifest itself in negative ways such as gossiping or sabotage.
Sexual attraction can cause hidden favoritism, covert alliances, and interpersonal competition among colleagues. These behaviors can damage workplace morale and productivity and should be avoided at all costs. Managers must ensure that they treat all employees fairly and impartially, and employees should resist engaging in these types of behaviors.
Can sexual attraction create hidden favoritism, covert alliances, or interpersonal competition among colleagues?
Sexual attraction can lead to favoritism, alliances, and competition between coworkers for various reasons. When individuals are attracted to one another, they may prioritize their personal relationships over professional ones, which could result in favoritism toward that individual. This favoritism can be unfair to other employees who do not share the same relationship with the individual receiving special treatment.