A Framework for Investigating the Link between Workplace Romance and Sexual Harassment

Abstract

Workplace romance and sexual harassment are pervasive social-sexual phenomena in organizations. However, the processes through which dissolved workplace romances are most likely to foster sexually harassing behavior between former romantic partners are not known. The authors propose that the following factors play a critical role in influencing the likelihood that terminated workplace romances lead to sexually harassing behavior: (a) type of workplace romance as defined by pairing of each partner's primary romance motive, (b) partners' social power, (c) initiation of romantic relationship dissolution, (d) male partner's sexual harassment proclivity, (e) nature of each partner's residual affective state, and (f) organization's tolerance for sexual harassment. Based on the role of these factors, the authors provide a framework and propositions that serve to guide future research addressing the link between dissolved workplace romances and sexually harassing behavior Methodological considerations and implications for management are also discussed.

Publication Title

Group and Organization Management

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