Home -> Law Blog Directory -> Legal Commentary Blogs -> Althouse

Legal Commentary

: Althouse

Do you have a "work spouse"?

By Ann Althouse

23% of employees in some poll said they did ? they had someone at work who plays something like a spousal role, someone who's a source of "mental and emotional support" and even "bickering." And sex? Well, according to the article, they know where to draw the line, and they keep it "platonic." If you've got one of those relationships, here's the test:

? Would you behave the same way if your romantic partner were standing next to you?

? Are your flirtations consistent with the way you normally behave?

? Are you thinking about your "work spouse" while not at work?

? Do you compare your "work spouse" to your real romantic partner?

Those questions are from Heidi Reeder, associate professor of communication at Boise State University in Idaho, who thinks it's good to have a work spouse (who doesn't cross the line): "It's an esteem booster for both men and women to have a little flirtation in their day -- it makes them feel a little better, gives them a little more energy."

Surely, we can think of some better questions.

Does everyone in the office think you're having an affair?

Do you find yourself thinking: Thank God, it's Monday?

ADDED: Another question I thought of for the test:

• Does this person look like someone you'd date if you were free?

Full post as published by Althouse on February 06, 2008 (boomark / email).