Why might sexual harassment occur in a workplace despite clear company policies forbidding it?
This past February, an article came out in Sports Illustrated revealing disturbing instances of sexual harassment and workplace misconduct in the office of the NBA team the Dallas Mavericks. Following
Hostile Work Environment and Quid Pro Quo Harassment
There are two main types of sexual harassment claims, a hostile work environment
A hostile work environment occurs when speech or conduct within a workplace is so severe and persistent that it creates an intimidating work environment. A hostile work environment could be caused by repeated sexual jokes, offensive pictures around the office, and other instances of pervasive sexism.
Quid pro quo harassment, on the other hand, is defined as demanding sexual favors in exchange for a
Discouraging Reporting and Failing to Correct Bad Behavior
One of the first steps towards preventing sexual harassment in your workplace is
An anti-sexual harassment policy is only effective if employees who are being harassed know who to report to and feel they can report issues without retaliation. To ensure reporting, employers must respond and investigate all complaints. Employees must never face retaliation for filing a claim. Further, employers need to take prompt action when they uncover instances of sexual harassment. Contact an employment discrimination lawyer for more assistance if you feel you are a victim of workplace harassment.