Sexual harassment and assault are types of sex discrimination that can manifest in various ways. Women should not face sexual harassment from their supervisors and coworkers, but unfortunately, it’s still happening. 

Sexual harassment includes:

• Unwelcome sexual advances.
• Objectionable requests for sexual favors.
• Other sexually motivated verbal or physical behavior is likely to make an individual feel uncomfortable or threatened.

In this article, we’ll learn what sexual harassment is and how it can be prevented or successfully dealt with.

Sexual harassment and assault are serious offenses. It can be characterized as any unwanted or unwelcome sexual advances or conduct. 

It can include physical, verbal, or visual harassment. Sattiraju & Tharney law firm specializes in helping victims of sexual harassment in the workplace. 

 They can assist you in understanding your rights and responsibilities options and work with you to create a plan to stop the harassment and get the compensation you deserve.

What is Sexual Harassment?

Sexual harassment is a kind of discrimination that might involve unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other sexually motivated verbal or physical behavior. Sexual harassment might occur between coworkers, a supervisor, anybody else, a subordinate, or someone who is not an employee of the company (such as a client or vendor).

While sexual harassment can be directed toward anyone, it is most commonly directed toward women by men. This form of harassment can make the workplace uncomfortable and make it difficult for the victim to do their job. Sexual harassment can also lead to Retaliation if the victim reports the incident(s).

There are several ways to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace, including having a clear policy against it, providing training on what constitutes sexual harassment, and ensuring that there is a process for Employees to be encouraged to report events without fear of Retaliation.

How can Sexual Harassment be Prevented?

A few essential steps can be taken to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace:

1. A clear and exhaustive policy that defines sexual harassment and describes the repercussions of engaging in such behavior is required. All employees should regularly revisit this policy, so everyone knows what is expected of them.
2. It is essential to create a culture in which employees feel comfortable coming forward with any concerns or issues they may have. An open and supportive workplace in which employees feel free to speak up without fear of repercussions.
3. It is essential to investigate any allegations of sexual harassment promptly and thoroughly to send a strong signal that such type of behavior will not be acceptable.

Types of Sexual Harassment

There are two sorts of workplace sexual harassment: quid pro quo and hostile work conditions.

Quid pro quo happens when a person in a position of power offers something in exchange for something else. This form of sexual harassment is prohibited and can lead to termination from your employment.

A hostile work environment is created when unwelcome comments or conduct of a sexual nature creates an offensive or uncomfortable work environment. This type of sexual harassment can be challenging to prove and may not result in losing your job, but it can make going to work every day a nightmare. 

Sexual harassment can be prevented by creating a zero-tolerance policy at your workplace. By clarifying that sexual harassment will not be tolerated, you can help create a safe and respectful workplace for everyone.

What Should You Do If You Have Been a Victim of Sexual Harassment?

If you’re a victim of sexual abuse at work, you can take specific steps to protect yourself and your rights.

First, it is essential to understand what sexual harassment is and how it can manifest itself in the workplace. Sexual harassment is inappropriate or unwelcome sexual approaches, comments, or conduct that creates a hostile or offensive work environment. 

It can include unwelcome sexual comments or jokes, physical touching or contact, leering or staring, sexually suggestive emails or texts, and more. It is essential to speak up, tell the person their behavior is unwelcome, and clarify that you want them to stop.

If the harassment does not stop after speaking with the individual directly, you must report the behavior to your boss or the HR department. They will be able to investigate the situation and take appropriate action. It may include giving the harasser a warning, changing their work assignment, putting them on probation, or terminating their employment.

In any subsequent investigation, an attorney can also help you file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or a state equivalent. If you have suffered workplace harassment, your lawyer can help you negotiate with your employer for a resolution.

It is also essential to document everything that has happened to have a record if you need further action. Keep copies of every email or text that you receive sent to you, make notes about what happened and when, and save any other documentation that may be relevant.