Workplace harassment

Workplace harassment is a form of employment discrimination that violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. It is a pervasive and persistent issue in workplaces worldwide.

Definition

Workplace harassment is the belittling or threatening behavior directed at an individual worker or a group of workers. The legal definition varies by jurisdiction, but it generally includes conduct that disrupts or interferes with an employee's work performance or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment.

Types of Workplace Harassment

There are several types of workplace harassment, including sexual harassment, bullying, cyberbullying, and discrimination based on race, sex, age, disability, or other protected characteristics.

Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination that violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. It includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature.

Bullying

Workplace bullying is repeated, health-harming mistreatment of one or more persons (the targets) by one or more perpetrators. It is abusive conduct that is threatening, humiliating, or intimidating.

Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying in the workplace is the use of digital communication tools, such as the internet and mobile phones, to bully or harass others.

Discrimination

Discrimination in the workplace is treating, or proposing to treat, someone unfavorably because of a personal characteristic protected by law.

Effects of Workplace Harassment

Workplace harassment can have severe effects on the victims' physical and emotional health, as well as their work performance. It can lead to job loss, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and even suicide.

Prevention and Response

Employers have a legal and ethical responsibility to prevent and respond to workplace harassment. This can be achieved through policies, training, and a culture of respect. Employees who experience harassment should report it to their supervisor, human resources department, or a designated company official.

See Also

• Hostile work environment
• Workplace violence
• Workplace bullying
• Sexual harassment
• Employment discrimination

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  Anita Hill at Harvard Law School, September 2014
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  Workplace harassment