Helping others is in our nature as social beings. It is also seen as a sign of a good working atmosphere when we lend a hand to colleagues.
For many people, this is a given. But some people tend to mean well and help without being asked.
One current study comes to the conclusion that this type of assistance is not only well-intentioned, but even counterproductive.
Why is that important? Most of us will have experienced this from one or both perspectives (or even both). But if the study’s findings are correct, we do more harm than good by helping others unintentionally.
The basis of the study
Im Detail: The study was conducted by occupational psychologist Anika Schulz from the Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. Participants aged at least 18 who work 35 hours per week or more were recruited nationwide.
- 321 people took part in the initial study, and ultimately 279 of them were included in the evaluation.
- The average age was 42.5 years, with 50.2 percent of respondents being male.
- The average length of service was 20 years, and 27 percent of participants held a management position.
The study was conducted in two parts, with measurements taken two weeks apart.
The research results
Schulz concludes that unwanted help is perceived as unhelpful by the recipients because it leads them to question their ability to solve tasks independently.
This undermines the need for competence and limits the need for autonomy.
The result is that those affected are busy with work far beyond working hours – this is called affective rumination. This means that they are less able to switch off and therefore less able to regenerate. At the same time, those affected become more frustrated at work.
What can be done about it?
According to the study, help should only be offered when it is explicitly requested. In our opinion, however, this requires a certain degree of sensitivity.
The direct question of whether someone needs help may not be helpful, because there are also people who find it difficult to say no and refuse help. Even if they And
say, the help is actually unwanted.
Nevertheless, it is probably advisable to ask before helping or giving advice. Or do you think otherwise? Feel free to write it in the comments!