Dynamics of Affective Relationships in the Office

The Dilemma of Sentimental Relationships Among Colleagues

Romantic relationships in the workplace are an inevitable reality given the amount of time people share.

However, from a risk management perspective, they represent a critical challenge.

When romance arises between unrelated peers, the impact is usually minor, although it can create distractions or discomfort in the team if there are public discussions or excessive displays of affection.

The real problem arises when the relationship ends; the breakup can transform a collaborative environment into a battlefield, where ex-partners try to sabotage each other or force colleagues to "take sides", deteriorating group cohesion and affecting productivity.

Conflicts of Interest and Hierarchies (Favoritism)

The risk is maximized when the relationship links a boss with a direct subordinate. Here we enter the realm of conflict of interest.

Even if the relationship is consensual and genuine, the perception of the rest of the team will inevitably be one of favoritism.

Any promotion, salary increase or assignment of attractive projects to the boss's partner will be viewed under the shadow of suspicion, delegitimizing professional merit.

This destroys the morale of the team, which feels that "the rules are not the same for everyone."

This is why robust corporate policies often require the declaration of these relationships in order to reassign one party and eliminate the direct reporting line.

The Risk of Post-Rupture Harassment Reporting.

There is a fine line between a consensual relationship and a harassment situation, especially when the love ends.

What during the relationship were accepted jokes or welcome physical interactions, after the breakup may be reinterpreted and reported as sexual harassment or hostile environment, especially if one of the parties tries to win back the other in an insistent manner.

Companies should have clear protocols in place that protect both parties, establishing that "no is no" and that romantic insistence after a