In the modern workplace, sexual harassment charges have remained steady for more than a decade. Sexual harassment can happen to anyone, regardless of gender identity or orientation, and can leave those who experienced it unsure of how to proceed. Understanding the signs of sexual harassment at work is a crucial step toward empowerment and change.
This post explains some of the signs of sexual harassment, how to report it at work and how to take legal action if necessary. If you or someone you know has felt sexually assaulted at work or wondered about the signs someone is harassing you, this blog provides some useful guidance.
Sexual harassment in the workplace comprises many behaviors and actions, not just physical acts. According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), sexual harassment at work refers to any unwelcome sexual advances, comments or actions that create a hostile, intimidating or offensive work environment. This definition includes everything from inappropriate jokes and offensive remarks about someone’s gender to explicit messages and sexual assault. Even if these actions are not physical, they can still constitute sexual harassment if they make someone uncomfortable based on gender or gender identity.
Sexual harassment can come from your boss, co-workers, clients and vendors. Additionally, it doesn’t matter if these people claim they didn’t intend to harass anyone — behavior that creates an unwelcoming or unsafe workplace is harassment.
Sexual harassment is unlawful and can have severe consequences. Employees have rights and protections against it, including the right to seek redress if they believe they have been subjected to harassment. If you have ever asked yourself, “Was I sexually harassed?” or if you think you experienced inappropriate conduct in the workplace, you need to understand your rights and take appropriate action to address it.
Sexual harassment at work can manifest in various ways, creating a distressing and uncomfortable atmosphere. Understanding the distinct forms of workplace sexual harassment is vital. Here are some key types:
Recognizing these forms of harassment is essential to addressing and preventing such behavior in the workplace, ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all employees and preventing incidents of sexual harassment at work.
Understanding the signs of sexual harassment is essential to creating a safe and respectful work environment. Here are 10 sexual harassment signs, with real-life examples:
Coercion is a blatant sign of sexual harassment, where a person in a position of authority or power demands sexual favors in return for job-related benefits. For instance, a supervisor might suggest that a subordinate should engage in sexual acts to receive a promotion or job security. This creates a deeply uncomfortable and exploitative situation for an individual, who may feel trapped and fearful of the consequences of refusing.
Sexual harassment is not always overt — it can involve subtle behaviors that create discomfort or fear. This includes lewd jokes, comments or even explicit conversations that make employees feel uneasy or threatened. A hostile work environment may arise when these behaviors persist, causing anxiety and distress among employees.
Unwanted sexual attention encompasses comments about a person’s appearance, body or clothing. For example, repeatedly commenting on a colleague’s physical attributes or making inappropriate compliments may make them feel objectified and humiliated.
Unwanted physical contact ranges from inappropriate hugging, patting or touching to more serious offenses like groping or sexual assault. The individuals experiencing this may feel violated, unsafe and maybe even traumatized. Such actions are unacceptable in the workplace and are often severe enough in nature to violate the law.
Jokes of a sexual nature — whether verbal, written or in the form of practical jokes — may be a form of harassment. This includes leaving sexualized items on a co-worker’s desk or making jokes that demean or objectify people based on their sex or gender identity. Such actions create a hostile atmosphere.
Engaging in explicit discussions about one’s sex life, sexual acts or sharing pornography at work crosses professional boundaries. Even if these conversations do not directly involve every employee, they contribute to an uncomfortable work environment and should not be tolerated.
A colleague or supervisor persistently asking another employee for dates — even after repeated rejections — is a clear form of harassment. This places the individual in an unfair and stressful position, feeling pressured to navigate constant advances.
Making sexual gestures or using body language to suggest sexual acts is highly inappropriate and offensive. It communicates a lack of respect for boundaries and creates an uncomfortable and intimidating atmosphere for others.
Displaying sexually explicit materials — whether in physical or digital form — is a sign of sexual harassment. For example, a co-worker who keeps a sexually explicit calendar on their desk may be a form of harassment. It can objectify individuals and create a hostile environment that can be deeply distressing for co-workers.
Sexually charged insults, slurs or derogatory language aimed at an individual based on their sex or gender identity may be considered harassment. These insults are often intended to humiliate and intimidate, creating a hostile work environment.
If you’ve been sexually assaulted at work or suspect someone is harassing you, understanding these signs empowers you to address the issue promptly.
Promptly reporting sexual harassment is crucial to ending the abuse and ensuring a safe workplace. If you have experienced sexual harassment, follow these steps:
Reporting harassment is critical to creating a workplace free from such misconduct. Don’t hesitate to act if you have been sexually harassed at work.
If you believe you have experienced sexual harassment at work, you may be able to pursue legal action against your employer. Consult an attorney when:
Legal action may result in compensation for damages and a safer workplace. Consulting an attorney experienced in sexual harassment cases is crucial to understanding your rights and options.
If you believe you have experienced workplace sexual harassment, it’s crucial to take action. Weisberg Cummings is here to support you. Our experienced team of attorneys is well-versed in employment law, including sexual harassment cases.
If you’re witnessing the signs of sexual harassment in your workplace or you experienced it yourself, reach out to us today. We’ll provide a free, confidential consultation to discuss your legal options. You have the right to a safe and respectful workplace. Together, we can work towards a future free from harassment.
Contact us online or reach out to us at (855) 716-2367.
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