Male-female relationships in the workplace: Perceived motivations in office romance

Abstract

A survey of 218 recent business school graduates confirmed prior studies of differential evaluation of women involved in workplace romances. The research addressed whether women are still perceived as entering into relationships for motives different from men, particularly in terms of exploiting sexuality for gain. Few instances were found where relationships were formed for personal advancement; however, motivations for personal gain were far more commonly attributed to women. Women were also more likely to be perceived as victims of the office "fling." Attributions did not differ between male and female observers. Implications for working women are discussed. © 1991 Plenum Publishing Corporation.