Psychologists Investigate Impact Of Romantic Relationships At Work

Main Category: Psychology / Psychiatry
Article Date: 14 Apr 2010 - 11:00 PDT


Sexual and romantic relationships are a common occurrence in the workplace. In addition to the personal impact of such relationships, they also have the potential to affect the smooth running of organisations.

Dr Lisa Matthewman from the University of Westminster presented her findings at the British Psychological Society's Annual Conference on 14th April 2010.

In a new take on this topic, Dr Matthewman focuses on how these relationships are initiated, maintained and evolve rather than the frequency with which they occur and the impact that they have. By documenting and understanding these issues, guidance can be prepared to help HR practitioners, line managers and occupational psychologists respond effectively to workplace relationships.

Dr Matthewman's research is based on 58 in-depth interviews conducted with men and women currently in a romantic or sexual relationship in the workplace. "The workplace is a hotbed of sexual activity. Sometimes workplace romances can pose a threat to organisational function and can lead to the dark side of love taking over in the workplace. However, with good management practice and policy, workplace romances can enhance workplace effectiveness".

Dr Matthewman is particularly keen to examine when these relationships can result in a conflict of interest in the workplace, and how this can be resolved. Dr Matthewman said: "Some form of managerial intervention is required when a workplace romance presents a serious threat to the conduct of individuals or work teams."

It is important to ask, how are romantic and sexual relationships formed? How do they evolve and what are the consequences of them for individuals, colleagues and the organisation? A thorough risk assessment and relationship coaching can go a long way to counter the negative effects of workplace relationships.

Source
British Psychological Society

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