Date of Publication

2023

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Business Administration

Subject Categories

Business Administration, Management, and Operations

College

Ramon V. Del Rosario College of Business

Department/Unit

Management and Organization Department

Thesis Advisor

Patrick Adriel H. Aure

Defense Panel Chair

Raymund B. Habaradas

Defense Panel Member

Jonalyn C. Baquillas
Oscar G. Bulaong, Jr.
Mary Margaret O. Que
Rachel A. Quero

Abstract (English)

In the workplace, leader-member roles may also share personal and workplace friendships. This complex behavioral relationship evolves from varying dimensions that influence working dynamics in the organization. This study considered the Leader-Member Exchange (LMX) Theory by Dansereau et al. (1975) and the emerging theory of Developmental Friendships by Bradbury (2022) in pursuit of examining workplace friendships. This study took after an explanatory qualitative research method employing a multiple case study approach from the lens of a pragmatic-critical realist philosophy. The research aims to understand workplace friendships' structures and causal mechanisms among Filipino millennials, examining the complexities of relationship formation, evolution, and outcomes. The findings reveal that relationship formation is affected by the organizational setting shared by individuals, highlighting perceived similarity, shared interests, proximity, and familiarity as key elements in developing workplace friendships. At the same time, tensions may arise in sharing personal and professional relationships due to emotions and individual differences. However, a culture of open communication, honesty, and transparency effectively prevent and resolve conflicts within workplace friendships. The study identifies five causal mechanisms that significantly influence the phenomenon: empathic communication, harmonious camaraderie, supportive leader and member relationships, nourishing profound connections, and personal and professional growth. Furthermore, the research uncovers the "palabas na ibang tao" concept within the Filipino context, which describes the balancing act between professionalism and personal relationships. While prioritizing professionalism in fulfilling their responsibilities at work, individuals also value their friendships when necessary. Moreover, the narratives illustrate that individuals engaging in dual relationships maintain workplace friendships by emphasizing respect and honesty, establishing clear boundaries between friendship and work, maintaining open communication, and valuing each other's growth and success. Therefore, workplace friendships positively impact emotional, mental, psychological, and physical well-being, providing support, motivation, and a positive work environment. They foster collaboration and knowledge sharing and contribute to organizational value creation through enhanced communication, innovation, and goal achievement. Finally, the study offers several management recommendations to foster healthy workplace friendships. These recommendations include promoting open communication, fostering a collaborative environment, supporting knowledge sharing, facilitating personal and professional growth, encouraging social interactions, leading by example, recognizing and rewarding teamwork, providing opportunities for community engagement, establishing clear boundaries, and implications for human resource practices on hiring and selection process, intervention activities, and management development processes. Implementing these can cultivate a culture that supports and nurtures healthy workplace friendships, enhancing communication, collaboration, personal growth, and engagement, contributing to personal well-being and organizational value creation.

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Keywords

Work environment

Upload Full Text

wf_yes

Embargo Period

9-11-2023

Download

Share

COinS