List and discuss the three transitions in co-worker relationships as identified by Patricia Sias and Daniel Cahill (1998). Apply the discussion of transitions to an experience you have had in a working environment

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The first transition, from acquaintance to friend, is primarily caused by
contextual (environmental) factors such as being in the same physical space, sharing
tasks, and socializing outside of work. For many people this transition is caused simply
by working with the other person for extended periods of time in close proximity. An
increase in perceived similarity is an important reason as well. The communication
between the partners focuses more on nonwork and personal topics and is less and less
cautious.
The second transition, from friend to close friend, is driven primarily by problems or
events in both personal life and work life. Socializing becomes more intimate in that coworkers
spend more time together outside of work and with each other's families.
Communication becomes more intimate and more open. People report discussing more
work-related problems than they did prior to becoming close friends.
The third transition, moving from close friend to almost best friend, is associated
primarily with socializing outside work and shared life events and work-related problems.
Trust increases and co-workers feel freer to share opinions and feelings, especially about
work frustrations. Discussions about work and personal life become much more detailed