Understanding the Different Forms of Workplace Harassment

Workplace harassment is a serious issue that affects millions of employees across various industries. It refers to any unwanted behavior or conduct that creates a hostile, intimidating, or offensive work environment. Harassment can occur in different forms, and it is important for employees and employers alike to recognize and understand these forms to prevent and address them appropriately.

What is Workplace Harassment?

According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), workplace harassment can be defined as unwelcome conduct based on protected characteristics such as race, gender, age, disability, religion, or national origin. The conduct can be verbal, physical, or visual, and it can interfere with an employee’s performance or create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment.

Harassment can occur between individuals of the same or different genders, and it can be either perpetrated by a colleague, supervisor, or even a client or customer. It can also happen in various settings, including in-person, online, or over the phone.

The Different Forms of Workplace Harassment

1. Verbal Harassment

This is the most common form of workplace harassment. It involves any spoken or written words that are offensive, humiliating, or degrading based on a protected characteristic. Verbal harassment can include derogatory comments, jokes, slurs, or insults. It can also include sexual comments or requests, including unwanted advances or propositions.

An example of verbal harassment is when a colleague makes constant derogatory comments about a person’s religion or ethnicity, creating a hostile work environment for that individual.

2. Non-Verbal Harassment

Non-verbal harassment refers to any unwelcome visual or physical conduct that creates an uncomfortable or intimidating work environment. This can include staring, leering, gestures, or physical contact. Non-verbal harassment can also include displaying offensive images or objects in the workplace.

For instance, if a supervisor constantly stares at an employee’s body in an inappropriate manner, it can be considered non-verbal harassment.

3. Cyber Harassment

In today’s digital era, workplace harassment can also occur online or through other electronic communication modes. Cyber harassment includes any form of online harassment, such as sending offensive messages, emails, or social media posts. It can also include sharing inappropriate photos or videos without consent.

For example, if an employee receives constant derogatory messages or threats from a co-worker on social media, it can be considered cyber harassment.

4. Sexual Harassment

This type of harassment specifically targets an individual’s gender or sexual orientation. It can include unwanted physical advances, sexual comments, or requests, as well as displaying sexually explicit material in the workplace. Sexual harassment can also extend to other forms, such as sexual orientation-based discrimination.

For instance, if a colleague makes unwelcome advances towards a person based on their sexual orientation, it can be considered sexual harassment.

5. Retaliation

Retaliation is a form of harassment that occurs when an employer takes adverse actions against an employee for reporting or speaking out about workplace harassment. Retaliation can include demotion, pay cuts, or termination. It can also take other subtle forms, such as exclusion from important meetings or projects.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the different forms of workplace harassment is crucial in preventing and addressing this issue effectively. Employers should have clear policies and procedures in place to address and prevent harassment in the workplace. Employees should also be educated on their rights and encouraged to speak up and report any instances of harassment. Together, we can create a safe and respectful work environment for everyone.