Consensual Relationship Agreements

Consensual Relationship Agreements

The workplace is a place where people come to earn a living and to further company goals. It has been observed that when most employees interact with each other they begin to form relationships. Today, romantic relationships have become very common in the workplace. There are incidents of dating and some resulting marriage. “A 1995 survey estimated that 80 percent of all employees have either observed or been involved in a romantic relationship at work” (Sutton, 1999). Problems such as sexual harassment in the workplace can occur if people start dating. For example, if a person in a higher position asks a subordinate for a date and the subordinate refuses the unwelcome advance, there may a potential for workplace harassment, “Even a consensual relationship, if it goes sour, can result in unwelcome advances, stalking, or other predatory conduct” (Sutton, 1999). If a subordinate begins to date a supervisor the employee may begin to receive preferential treatment which may present further ethical dilemmas.

To avoid these types of relationships in the workplace, it is necessary to create rule preventing such behavior. A “no dating” policy should be implemented to avoid such conditions. This policy should be clear, concise, and for every person in the workplace. Such policies should also be in accordance with the law to prevent violations of the right to privacy. Consensual Relationship Agreements (CRA) or Love Contracts have been introduced as a way to curb romantic relationships within the workplace. “By having both parties sign a Consensual Relationship Agreement, the two parties will be put on active notice of their separate rights and responsibilities, both during the course of the relationship and after its possible demise” (kelloggforum, 2011). It also has confirmation that the relationship is consensual and professional. The working relationship between the employees will remain professional in that they interact for the...