The phenomenon of attraction between coworkers has been studied extensively in organizational psychology and sociology. It is well known that when people are attracted to each other romantically, it can have both positive and negative effects on their working relationships.
How does this attraction impact team cohesion? This question remains largely unexplored. In this article, I will examine how attraction between coworkers can affect team dynamics, including communication patterns, decision making processes, interpersonal trust, and overall productivity.
Let's consider the effect of attraction on communication patterns. When coworkers are attracted to one another, they may engage in more frequent interactions and spend more time together than they would otherwise. This increased contact can lead to improved understanding and collaboration. On the other hand, however, such attraction can also create tension and jealousy among other members of the team, leading to decreased productivity.
Attraction-based communications may be characterized by flirtatiousness or sexual jokes, which can make non-attracted teammates feel excluded or uncomfortable.
Attraction can also influence decision making processes within a team. When two individuals are attracted to each other, they may work together more closely and share information more readily. This can lead to quicker problem solving and better outcomes for the team as a whole.
If these decisions are made behind closed doors or without input from other team members, it can undermine trust and create resentment.
Biased judgments may result in suboptimal choices.
Attraction can also affect interpersonal trust within a team. When coworkers are attracted to each other, they may perceive each other as being more competent, reliable, and trustworthy. This positive perception can foster greater cooperation and collaboration.
If the attraction is not reciprocated or becomes known to others outside the relationship, this trust may be damaged or undermined. It can also lead to resentment and gossip among non-attracted colleagues.
Attraction between coworkers can impact overall productivity. If the attraction is mutual and both parties are able to maintain healthy boundaries, it can lead to increased motivation and engagement.
If one person feels rejected or used, or if the relationship ends badly, it can lead to decreased performance and even conflict. In general, attraction should be managed carefully to ensure that it does not have negative consequences on team dynamics.
While attraction between coworkers can have some benefits, it also carries significant risks for team cohesion. Teams must take steps to manage this phenomenon appropriately to avoid adverse effects.
How does attraction between coworkers alter perceptions of team cohesion?
Coworker attraction can lead to misconceptions about team dynamics and alter perceptions of group cohesiveness. The presence of romantic feelings may create an environment where individuals are more likely to form exclusive bonds with each other than focus on the goals of the larger group. This can negatively impact productivity and motivation among employees who do not share these relationships.