Workers Attitudes and Perceptions on Workplace Romances: Do Heterosexual and Homosexual Relationships Make a Difference?

Abstract

This paper examined workplace romances and the effect that these relationships have on the work environment, the organization, and the peers. The research explores the formation of these relationships, the motives for engaging in these relationships, the differences in power distance, and the effect that sexual orientation and gender has on how organizational peers view workplace romance. These relationships can impact the interpersonal relationships that employees have at work, and the paper explores the key constructs (solidarity, trust, deception, productivity, and justice) that are influenced by workplace romance. Suggestions were then made to management and Human Resource Professionals to assist in addressing workplace romances within their organization by creating workplace romance policies and developing a culture that is more open to romantic relationships.