The concept of sexual attraction has been extensively studied for decades now. It is believed to be one of the most fundamental aspects of human nature that involves physical and emotional feelings towards another individual of opposite or same sex. While some people are open about expressing their desires, others remain quiet out of fear or social stigma associated with this act. In many cultures around the world, talking about such matters is considered taboo, especially when it comes to public places like workplaces. The influence of sexuality can significantly impact collaboration, communication, and performance between individuals involved in such relationships. This is because these interactions tend to create covert hierarchies that lead to inequality among workers.
- Definition of Covert Hierarchy
Sexual hierarchy refers to the power imbalance between individuals based on their gender. It occurs when an individual in a relationship assumes dominance over another through the use of force, manipulation, and other forms of abuse. When this happens, the subordinate partner may feel inferior and less valued than his/her superior counterpart. Thus, there will always be tension in such relationships due to differences in status quo.
- How Sexual Relationships Create Hierarchy
When two colleagues engage in sexual activities outside work hours, they establish a sexual connection that may have significant repercussions at work. One party becomes more prominent than the other as a result of regular intimacy, which leads to envy and frustration from co-workers. The dominant worker tends to enjoy favors from the boss while the underdog feels left out, leading to reduced productivity and poor performance.
- Impacts of Covers Hierarchy on Collaboration, Communication, and Performance
Covers hierarchy hinders collaboration by creating unnecessary competition between partners.
If one person enjoys favoritism from a supervisor or manager, the others might see him/her as better off than them. Thus, they will avoid communicating openly with them for fear of exposing sensitive information that could cost them their job or promotion. Also, the victimized employee may experience stress, anxiety, and depression as a result of being looked down upon by peers. This creates a toxic working environment where team members cannot work together effectively.
- Recommendations
To ensure everyone enjoys equal opportunities regardless of gender, companies should put measures in place that discourage casual encounters between workers. They should also promote an inclusive culture that allows employees to report harassment cases without fear of retaliation. Moreover, management teams must not tolerate any form of abuse or manipulation within the organization's premises because it breeds negativity among staff.
There is a need for constant training on equality and respect in the workplace.
Can sexual relationships create covert hierarchies that impact collaboration, communication, and performance?
Sexual relationships between coworkers can create covert hierarchies that negatively impact collaboration, communication, and performance in many ways. One of these is when one party feels obliged to give preferential treatment to the other due to their personal involvement, which may compromise objectivity during workplace interactions.