Signs of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
Do you know about 56% of employees have either witnessed or experienced sexual harassment in the workplace? Today, sexual harassment is still a prevalent issue in most organizations and affects both men and women. Sexual harassment in the workplace exists in two forms: hostile work environment and quid pro quo.
Quid pro quo sexual harassment is when a person in a position of power or authority demands sexual favor in exchange for something. A manager or supervisor may demand sexual favor from a subordinate in return for a benefit (i.e., pay rise, job acceptance, or promotion) or to avoid disastrous consequences (i.e., job loss, demotion).
Hostile work environment sexual harassment involves repeated and intentional behaviors that create an uncomfortable or intimidating work environment. This type of harassment can come from anyone in the workplace and may include sexual violence/assault or sexual jokes.
In some cases, workplace sexual harassment may not be apparent or obvious. So, how can you tell you're a victim? Read on to learn some common signs of sexual harassment in the workplace.
Inappropriate Physical Contact
Unwanted physical contact in the workplace is among the most extreme forms of sexual harassment. Unwelcome physical contact may include pinching, kissing, touching, hugging, grabbing, leering, or even using an object to touch someone. While some actions such as touching and hugging can be an innocent expression of friendship, the recipient might not appreciate it.
Suppose you've consistently told a colleague or peer you're not comfortable or feel unsafe with a certain physical contact, but they continue. In that case, you might be a victim of sexual harassment in the workplace. Speak with an attorney who will listen to your case and advice on the best legal actions to protect your rights.
Unwelcome Requests
Also known as quid pro quo, unwelcome requests for sexual or romantic activities indicate workplace sexual harassment. For instance, if your manager asks you out for a date and, in exchange, they promise to reduce your work assignments, you might want to take action against sexual harassment. Also, it could be the manager has threatened to either fire or demote you if you reject their advances.
If you've experienced this type of quid pro quo sexual harassment, you may have a strong case against the harasser. However, for a successful sexual harassment claim, talk to an experienced employment lawyer who will offer legal guidance and representation.
Sexualized Language and Images
Sexualized jokes, remarks, gestures, noises, or images indicate sexual harassment. If you're subjected to any of these harassments physically through text message, email, video, call, or social media post, you have grounds for a sexual harassment claim. Whether from a superior or colleague, this type of sexual harassment can create a hostile work environment for the victim and affect productivity.
Retaliation
In most cases, employees who reject the advances of their superiors may be subject to retaliation. Also, the retaliation could occur if the victim reports the harasser to the concerned department. If you're uncomfortable with a superior or coworker's sexually inappropriate behavior in the workplace, but you feel speaking out could have consequences, you're a victim of sexual harassment.
Also, if you've been demoted, fired, or received any other kind of punishment after you declined advances or reported a complaint, you have strong grounds for a sexual harassment claim.
Experiencing sexual harassment in the workplace can be stressful and frightening. If you're a victim of workplace sexual harassment, seek a legal remedy. Work with a skilled employment attorney to prove a violation of your rights. At Allen D. Arnold Attorney at Law, we're ready to fight for you to guarantee the best legal outcome.
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