What Are the Most Common Types of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace?

The following paragraphs will detail some of the more common types of sexual harassment in the workplace that can occur with anyone regardless of their gender, race, or ethnicity. Harassment is any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that has no acceptable reason. It can include but is not limited to, verbal comments, physical contact, and/or intercourse.

Even though most companies do know that discrimination is bad for business, very few actually have policies that deal with sexual harassment. This is because it often goes unreported. Many employers are well aware that there is a problem with sexual harassment in the workplace. However, they do not want to take the risk of hiring someone who has been previously victimized. Therefore, they usually do not have a clear understanding of the issue.

There are two main reasons why employers do not know how to handle sexual harassment in the workplace. First, they may think that it does not happen often enough or that they are not aware of the problem. This is not true, however, as countless reports of sexual harassment are received every year. Secondly, they may be too embarrassed to call in a sexual harassment attorney.

Even though many people assume that the first step to dealing with sexual harassment in the workplace is to file a sexual harassment lawsuit, this is not the case. In fact, most employees feel more comfortable coming forward if they have an official complaint filed against them. Some employers will actually hire an attorney to represent them in court. Even though this is not an inexpensive option, many employees feel more confident if this is their only option.

In addition to the types of harassment that occur regularly in the workplace, there are other types of harassment that are less frequent. Such as, but not limited to, name-calling, inappropriate touching, and even sexual harassment in the workplace. The worst type of harassment occurs from peers, co-workers, and sometimes management. However, if this is the only form of harassment, it usually will not be a problem for most employees. However, when it becomes the bulk of workplace communication, it can become very problematic.

Some of the types of sexual innuendo include jokes, references, and general comments that make sexual advancements or advances towards one's peers. Another form of sexual innuendo includes sexual innuendo that takes place during a work conversation. As well, some employers actually use jokes that demean women as part of the humor in the workplace, such as jokes about dress or physical traits.

If employees feel that their sexual harassment experience has been substantial enough to cause them to be discriminated against or harassed, they may be able to file a case of sexual harassment in the workplace. This should be done after taking all possible steps to ensure that you have a solid case. A sexual harassment lawyer should be consulted to determine if there is a basis for your claim and to obtain evidence to support it.

Employers who are found to be guilty of harassment in the workplace can be subjected to financial fines, suspension, or even firing. In addition, a victim of harassment can receive benefits from damages incurred as a result of the employer's actions. There are many different types of sexual harassment, and you need to ensure that you know what measures you are entitled to take if you feel your wellbeing has been negatively affected by sexual harassment in the workplace. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to contact an experienced workplace sexual harassment lawyer so they can give you guidance on your rights and remedies.