How do people develop effective relational strategies when joining new groups? This question has been studied extensively in sociology and anthropology, but less is known about how it applies to different situations. In this essay, I will explore how these strategies are developed in two specific contexts: organizations and families.
Organizational Strategies:
In an organization, employees must learn to navigate hierarchy and culture to fit in. They may need to adjust their behavior depending on who they interact with, what tasks they are assigned, and what type of environment they work in.
Someone working for a large corporation might dress more formally than someone working for a start-up company. Employees also have to adapt to organizational norms such as communication styles, work ethic, and decision-making processes. An employee can make small changes to their behavior that are acceptable within the group's boundaries without significantly impacting their identity or values. These include being punctual, polite, respectful, and cooperative while still being assertive and independent when necessary. By building relationships with coworkers and superiors, they can learn about the norms and expectations of the organization and adapt accordingly.
Family Strategies:
Families often have hierarchical structures based on age, gender, role, or status. Individuals entering a family with pre-existing rules and roles must learn to navigate them carefully. One strategy is to embrace traditional roles and norms while still maintaining personal preferences and values.
A daughter may choose to follow her parents' religious beliefs while rejecting other aspects of their lifestyle. Another approach is to challenge the status quo by questioning existing norms and pushing for change. This can be risky but can lead to greater flexibility and openness. In some families, there are clear roles and expectations, while others allow more freedom and individualism. The key is finding a balance between conformity and autonomy that works for everyone involved.
Relational strategies involve balancing conformity and autonomy in different situations. When joining new groups with established hierarchies and norms, individuals need to find ways to fit in while maintaining their identity and values. Organizational strategies require adjustment to work culture and hierarchy, while family strategies involve navigating traditional roles and challenging expectations. Understanding these concepts helps us better understand how people form relationships and function within social systems.
How do individuals adapt relational strategies when joining units with pre-existing hierarchies or norms?
Individuals who join new teams often experience significant stress as they try to navigate the social dynamics of the group. One common challenge is understanding how to relate to members who already have established relationships within the team. Some ways that individuals can adapt their relational strategies in these situations include observing existing interactions, seeking out mentors or role models for guidance, and actively working to build connections with other team members.