What Behaviors Are Considered Harassment
By Corey Hanrahan
What behaviors are considered harassment? In the realm of the professional world, respect, and safety in the workplace are important. Harassment, unfortunately, is a reality that many employees face. Identifying the behaviors that constitute harassment is the first step in its prevention. Not only does it end abuse and discrimination, but it also fosters a workplace environment that is truly inclusive, supportive, and beneficial to the well-being of every person within it.
“…can include sending threatening or inappropriate messages, sharing inappropriate materials, or attacking someone based on a protected characteristic (i.e., age, race, sex, gender, etc.). Just because the interaction takes place through a screen doesn’t make it any less real or impactful…”
Understanding Harassment
Harassment is defined as severe or pervasive conduct that creates a hostile work environment, and contrary to popular belief, it is not limited to sexual advances. It encompasses a range of behaviors that are unwelcome and either create an offensive atmosphere at work, make it difficult for someone to work comfortably, or adversely affect one’s employment. Here are some scenarios that could create a hostile workplace:
- Verbal Abuse: Using derogatory language, racial slurs, or engaging in verbal attacks based on a person’s protected characteristics.
- Physical Misconduct: Any form of unwelcome touching, which can range from inappropriate pats on the back to more severe physical violations.
- Psychological Pressure: This can take subtler forms such as relentless teasing, or severe forms of intimidation, threats, or blackmail.
- Discriminatory Actions: Making employment decisions or work-life significantly harder for someone due to their race, gender, sexuality, or other protected traits.
Online Harassment
The digital age has brought about a new form of workplace harassment—online harassment. This can include sending threatening or inappropriate messages, sharing inappropriate materials, or attacking someone based on a protected characteristic (i.e., age, race, sex, gender, etc.). Just because the interaction takes place through a screen doesn’t make it any less real or impactful.
Creating a Positive Work Environment
The best way to address workplace harassment is through prevention, and that starts with education and clear communication at work. Employees should be familiar with the company’s policies on harassment, steps for reporting harassment, and feel that they can report incidents without fear of retaliation. Training on understanding, identifying, and preventing harassment should be an integral part of the onboarding process and ongoing development.
The Role of Management
Managers have a particular responsibility when it comes to handling harassment. They should be well-versed in the company’s policies and procedures, as well as legal obligations regarding harassment. Managers must show genuine support for employees and create an organizational culture that values the contributions of all employees while safeguarding against any form of abuse or harassment. If your manager is not listening to your concerns of harassment, he or she may be failing to protect you. In that case, it may be time to report up the chain of command to a higher supervisor, or to human resources.
Reporting Harassment
Encouraging employees to report harassment is the first line of defense against it. A reporting mechanism should be easily accessible and offer multiple channels for reporting, maintaining confidentiality, and ensuring swift, fair resolution. It’s also crucial to make sure it’s known that retaliation against anyone reporting harassment is strictly prohibited.
The Ripple Effect of Harassment
Harassment doesn’t just affect the targeted individual, but it can also have a cascading impact on the team and the employment environment in general. In a toxic work environment, productivity suffers, trust erodes, and turnover increases. By taking a zero-tolerance stance towards harassment, an organization can create a culture of respect and inclusiveness that benefits everyone.
Conclusion
Harassment in the workplace is more than a legal issue – it’s a humanitarian one. It’s about treating others with respect and providing a safe, nurturing environment where everyone thrives. Understanding the breadth of behaviors that constitute harassment and how to report them is essential for breaking the cycle. By raising awareness and establishing clear policies, companies can ensure that their most valuable asset—their employees—are protected and empowered, resulting in a stronger, healthier, and more successful workplace.
If you believe you are being subjected to workplace harassment, reaching out to an experienced sexual harassment attorney can be a great first step to standing up for yourself. You have to remember, if you are being sexually harassed at work, you are a victim. There is no shame in reaching out to an attorney to obtain help. Attorney Corey Hanrahan of The Hanrahan Firm has represented countless sexual harassment victims. Our consultations are always free and confidential. Don’t hesitate, reach out today!
