Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical acts of a sexual character are all examples of sexual harassment in the workplace, a form of discrimination. Those who engage in this behavior include managers, coworkers, and clients. It can hinder an employee’s performance at work by fostering a hostile, frightening, or unpleasant work environment. It is forbidden by law and is a crime. Employers must establish and uphold rules that safeguard staff members from sexual harassment and foster a secure workplace.
Sexual harassment in the workplace is legally defined as any unwelcome verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature that unreasonably interferes with an individual’s work performance or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment (Australian Human Rights Commission). This includes, but is not limited to, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment may include comments about an individual’s appearance, gender, or sexual orientation, as well as any other behavior that is sexual.
Sexual harassment at work refers to any inappropriate verbal, physical, or blatantly sexual behavior. Sexual harassment in the workplace is prohibited under federal, state, and local legislation. The following are just a few instances of sexual harassment at work—there are undoubtedly many more—including:
It is critical to remember that “sexual harassment” can refer to both inappropriate behaviors by an individual against another person and bad behavior by an entire group toward one or more additional individuals. This needs to be remembered at all times.
It is essential to remember that sexual harassment can happen whether the victim and the harasser are of the same gender or not. It is crucial to keep in mind both of these ideas. Sexual harassment can affect anyone, regardless of gender or relationships with superiors or other people in authority. This can occur even if the harasser continues to hold a position of authority.
The most crucial thing to keep in mind about sexual harassment in the workplace is that it is unacceptable and that those who engage in it run the risk of losing their jobs as a result of disciplinary action. Employers must ensure that each employee is respected, feels at ease at work, and understands the sexual harassment rules.
The consequences of sexual harassment differ depending on the severity of the offenses that have been perpetrated, the age of the perpetrators, and the type of harassment perpetrated. The perpetrators of such violence can face serious legal action and even disciplinary actions that include criminal and civil penalties. In workplaces, sexual harassment can lead to dismissal, suspension, and disciplinary action (Siuta & Bergman, 2019). It is the employer’s responsibility to take the appropriate action if there is a complaint concerning sexual harassment in the workplace. Depending on the severity of the offense and workplace policies, the offender can face serious action, including being dismissed or suspended from the workplace. In other cases, the employer can take serious action, including filing a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator. Sexual harassment cannot be tolerated even in the most tolerant offices. The worst cases of sexual harassment can be punished by serving a jail term.
Those who engage in sexual harassment may face monetary consequences, such as being penalized for compensating the victim. Sometimes, the offender may be required to undergo some counseling or go through educational programs depending on the seriousness of the offense. The offenders can sometimes be publicly humiliated, which may tarnish their reputation and cause a loss of career opportunities (Siuta & Bergman, 2019). This may make the offender feel guilty or shame while also facing the risk of being rejected by society or even getting isolated.
There can also be many other impacts of sexual harassment in the workplace for both the victim and the perpetrator (Siuta & Bergman, 2019). However, it is important to understand that other employees within an organization will be impacted directly or indirectly by such issues. Some of the main ways in which the other employees will be impacted include developing feelings of fear and anxiety.
It is the legal responsibility of the employer to protect the rights of their employees and ensure that they are not harassed in the workplace. Employers should have effective workplace policies which should guide the activities of every employee in the workplace, limit the behaviors that they can exhibit, and outline the expectation the employer has for all the employees. This should include a clearly stated course of action the employer would take in case some of the employees get involved in sexual harassment practices (Siuta, & Bergman, 2019).
One of the most crucial steps in protecting employees from harassment is ensuring that all employees understand the sexual harassment policies and the consequences they will face in case they get involved in sexual harassment practices. Employers should ensure that employees are trained regularly on various issues and get adequate support to go through an adequate training program. The employees’ training should include how to identify sexual harassment cases and report them appropriately. Employers ought to make an effort to foster an atmosphere of equality and respect (Siuta & Bergman,2019). This should involve creating and enforcing a thorough anti-harassment policy and routinely educating staff members on the policy and what sexual harassment is. Additionally, employers need to ensure that staff members are aware of the reporting processes and whom to contact in the event they encounter or witness any form of harassment.
Companies must clearly state that sexual harassment is not acceptable in the workplace and that any allegations of harassment will be handled seriously and looked into right away. Additionally, they must guarantee that workers feel secure and at ease reporting any instances of harassment (Siuta & Bergman, 2019).
Employers must ensure that all allegations of harassment are thoroughly and quickly investigated. This should involve giving precise instructions on how to look into harassment claims and deal with any complaints. Interviewing witnesses and gathering evidence are both necessary components of the inquiry. Lastly, employers must ensure that any corrective action is suitable and efficient. This might entail disciplinary measures like suspension, dismissal, or other kinds of remedial measures (Siuta & Bergman, 2019). Additionally, it is crucial to guarantee that the sufferer
Any organization’s overall approach to stopping and resolving workplace harassment must include providing a secure and encouraging environment for workers who have suffered sexual harassment. It aids in ensuring that workers feel supported and that their rights are upheld. Making a thorough anti-harassment policy that describes the organization’s expectations and procedures for handling sexual harassment should be one of the first measures an organization takes. Definitions of sexual harassment, the company’s zero-tolerance approach to all forms of harassment, and the repercussions of violating the policy should all be outlined in the policy (Siuta & Bergman, 2019). The policy should also specify how employees should report any instances of sexual harassment.
All employees should receive training from their employers on their anti-harassment policy, including how to spot it and react to it. This should be done frequently to reaffirm the policy and make sure that employees are aware of their rights and duties (Siuta & Bergman,2019). Organizations should also offer assistance to workers who have been victims of sexual harassment. This can entail making counseling services accessible and allowing flexible work schedules to lessen the strain of starting a new job.
Organizations should make sure that any allegations of sexual harassment are treated seriously and are promptly and adequately investigated (Hardies, 2019). Regular updates on the status of the inquiry and the actions the business is taking to resolve the issue should be provided to employees who have suffered sexual harassment. Additionally, it is crucial to ensure that any disciplinary action is fair, consistent, and open.
These actions can help businesses create a welcoming workplace for staff members who have been victims of sexual harassment. This will contribute to developing a culture of trust and respect and ensure that all workers feel respected and heard.
Victims of sexual harassment frequently experience significant and lingering psychological impacts. Depression, anxiety, terror, flashbacks, and post-traumatic stress disorder can all affect sexual harassment victims (PTSD) (Siuta & Bergman, 2019). Additionally, they could feel helpless, guilty, embarrassed, and have low self-esteem.
In addition to various bodily symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, and insomnia, victims may feel bewildered and lost. Along with feelings of betrayal, resentment, and mistrust, sexual harassment victims may often feel alone and alienated. In addition, victims may feel embarrassed or guilty and hesitate to ask for assistance or support.
Victims of sexual harassment may experience significant changes in their self-perception and self-worth. The sufferer could feel unworthy, embarrassed, and ashamed. Additionally, the victim could feel humiliated to be identified as a victim and embarrassed to discuss what happened. Additionally, victims could feel helpless and unable to change their circumstances.
Another effect of sexual harassment may be a feeling of vulnerability and anxiety (Vagins & Gatta, 2019). Even if the individual is not the offender, victims may develop heightened vigilance and fear of encounters with people of the opposite sex. Victims could develop distrust towards managers or other supervisory people.
Sexual harassment’s psychological repercussions can be severe and have a long-lasting influence on the lives of its victims (Vagins & Gatta, 2019). A variety of mental and physical symptoms, as well as challenges in their interpersonal and professional interactions, may be experienced by victims. In addition, victims may feel untrustworthy and struggle with various psychological issues. It is critical for sexual harassment victims to get support and acquire coping mechanisms so they can deal with the trauma.
Sexual harassment at work is a serious issue that can affect both employees and companies in the long run. Sexual harassment must be recognized and prevented by employers at all times.
Employers should keep an eye out for changes in employee behavior as one of the most significant methods to spot potential symptoms of sexual harassment. An employee’s sudden withdrawal or reluctance to engage in activities they once found enjoyable could indicate a problem. Additionally, employers need to be on the lookout for any abrupt changes in performance or attitude since these might be signs of a hostile work environment.
Employers should also be alert to any offensive remarks or jokes at work. Sexual harassment can take many forms, including jokes, statements, and physical touch. Employers must be clear that this kind of conduct is prohibited and will not be allowed in the workplace.
Additionally, employers must be aware of any physical interactions or advances made between workers. This can involve stroking, kissing, or touching. Employees must notify their employer immediately if they witness a coworker engaging in inappropriate physical contact with another employee.
Another of the best ways to recognize sexual harassment is by watching employee behavior. An employee’s rapid retreat from fun hobbies may suggest a problem. Employers should also watch for sudden changes in performance or attitude, which could indicate a hostile workplace.
Employers should also watch out for workplace insults. Sexual harassment can include jokes, remarks, and touch. Employers must make it plain that this behavior is not tolerated in the workplace. They must also be aware of any physical advances between staff. Touching, kissing, and stroking are possible. If they see a coworker touching another employee inappropriately, they must report it.
These warning signs can help employers stop workplace sexual harassment. Staff should receive frequent training on sexual harassment and how to handle it. They must also have clear sexual harassment policies. These steps can avoid workplace sexual harassment and foster a culture of safety, respect, and empowerment regarding what sexual harassment is and how to respond to it if it does occur. Additionally, they must ensure that there are explicit policies and procedures to deal with any potential instances of sexual harassment (Hardies, 2019). Employers may prevent sexual harassment at work and promote a culture of safety, respect, and empowerment by following these measures. Employers can take action to stop sexual harassment in the workplace by being aware of these potential warning indicators. All staff members should be regularly trained. Workplace sexual harassment may harm people and companies. Employers must permanently prohibit sexual harassment.
Australian Human Rights Commission, The Legal Definition of Sexual Harassment. https://humanrights.gov.au/our-work/projects/sexual-harassment-workplace-legal-definition-sexual-harassment#:~:text=Sexual%20harassment%20is%20an%20unwelcome,that%20reaction%20in%20the%20circumstances.
Hardies, K. (2019). Personality, social norms, and sexual harassment in the workplace. Personality and individual differences, 151, 109496. https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Kris-Hardies/publication/334416368_Personality_social_norms_and_sexual_harassment_in_the_workplace/links/5d285133299bf1547cadde22/Personality-social-norms-and-sexual-harassment-in-the-workplace.pdf
Siuta, R. L., & Bergman, M. E. (2019). Sexual harassment in the workplace. In Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Business and Management. https://oxfordre.com/business/abstract/10.1093/acrefore/9780190224851.001.0001/acrefore-9780190224851-e-191
Vagins, D. J., & Gatta, M. (2019). Limiting Our Livelihoods: The Cumulative Impact of Sexual Harassment on Women’s Careers. American Association of University Women. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED606234.pdf