Impact of sexual harassment in the workplace


We looked recently at the importance of sexual harassment policies in the workplace, to help employers and managers create safe, inclusive work spaces for their staff. As we’ve said before, all employees have the right to work in a positive and non-threatening work environment, free from any form of Sexual harassment in the workplace.
Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case, with sexual harassment remaining a serious issue for many American workplaces. Being subjected to unwelcome and inappropriate behaviour at work, while trying to carry on and perform well under the usual stresses of a job, can have damaging and long-lasting effects on an individual.
When incidences of sexual harassment occur within a company, they also have serious repercussions and consequences for the organization as a whole. In the United States, laws have been put in place to protect both employees and employers from the long-reaching impacts of sexual harassment. Did you know that as an employer, neglecting to implement and practice proper anti-harassment policies may be a violation of both state and federal law?
Today we’ll look at how sexual harassment impacts the workplace and the negative effects it can have for both individuals and organizations. We’ll also point you in the direction of some online resources containing more information about workplace harassment, to help you navigate this important topic.
How Sexual Harassment Impact Employees
When an employee is being subjected to Harassment at work, the workplace becomes a hostile environment, with the constant threat of physical and/or emotional harm. This can lead to severe distress for victims, with individuals at risk of developing mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, PTSD or panic attacks, as well as the physical symptoms that accompany these disorders. 
Low productivity, motivation and morale levels, or high rates of sick leave or absenteeism, may also be signs that an employee is suffering from some form of harassment. As well as causing direct and immediate suffering for individuals, sexual harassment can interfere with work performance, career progression and even result in people being forced out of their job and income completely.
How Sexual Harassment Impacts Organizations
A workplace environment that fails to properly address the issue of sexual harassment will be at risk of developing signs of a negative work culture – low morale, discontent employees and high levels of absenteeism will soon be reflected in lower productivity and profits.
Financially, companies can expect to face higher rates of staff turnover, with the added strains of hiring and training new staff, as well as the expense of sexual harassment law suits. A sexual harassment law suit will cost your company significant amounts of money, in addition to damaging your reputation and brand name.
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