Flirting at work and in your personal life can be perceived as playful communication or an attempt to seduce. This pattern of behavior is especially typical for demonstrative people. However, the situation is not always clear.

Psychiatrist and psychotherapist Zhanna Adaricheva shared her thoughts with Mind agency on what triggers the observation of colleagues flirting in a team.

Speaking about what needs are met by flirting and how healthy this emotion is, the specialist says: "If a person is looking for a partner, it is considered natural, but if they already have a partner, it can be seen as a hint of infidelity."

Flirting can be seen as a game, a manifestation of childish playfulness, and a way to get positive emotions in a relationship. It is also important for human interaction. But, of course, if flirting turns into something more than a game, it can lead to the end of this "game".

The need to flirt depends on the context and boundaries. If flirting is found in a wide range of people, it may be an adaptive character trait. Alternatively, it may indicate an unmet need, when it is important for a person to please everyone, due to upbringing.

If flirting is a natural expression of liking, it helps to build rapport and chemistry between people. However, if a person does not know what the partner is like in their relationship, for example, at work, then the reaction is important. If you joke with colleagues, it's one thing. But intentionally drawing attention that remains unknown to the partner can be a problem. A person's reaction helps determine whether it is acceptable.

"As for flirting at work, it can be perceived as a means of increasing employee efficiency and reducing stress," says Zhanna Adaricheva. "If you have colleagues at work who bring pleasure and interest to the conversation, it can make the work process easier. This is not necessarily related to feelings or betrayal of a partner. It's just always nice to work in a positive environment."

Unfortunately, flirting can have the opposite effect, especially if it is perceived as something more. If it develops into an affair, it can take attention away from work and cause a conflict between career and personal life.

All people who value a pleasant environment can be prone to flirting, but especially those with an open personality and good communication skills. Flirting addiction can occur in people with demonstrative personalities who seek to constantly attract attention and receive approval from others.

Flirting can also contain a manipulative aspect when a person uses it to achieve their goals, such as a promotion or cooperation.

If flirting triggers a person, it may be related to personal space or an aversion to certain types of relationships. It is important to identify why this triggered a reaction and possibly do something about it.