When people arrive at their job each day in Missouri, they expect to perform their responsibilities in an environment that is safe and free of discrimination. However, there are undoubtedly times when people behave poorly toward each other which can ultimately result in feelings of discomfort, anxiety and even hostility in severe cases. Intervening before these issues create a danger is a primary goal of many companies and one that can be achieved with the timely implementation of policies designed to protect employees.
According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, sexual harassment can come in a variety of forms. First, it can be sexual and cause people to feel uncomfortable. Second, it can be demeaning comments about another person’s sex that are belittling, disrespectful and hurtful. What many people may not realize is that one person’s decision to make a disrespectful comment can affect more than just the victim. Others may also feel uncomfortable witnessing the harassment, the perpetrator may compromise his or her job and even the company itself can take a hit to its reputation depending on the severity of the situation and how they choose to handle it.
Stanford University says that people who have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace may have a harder time focusing on their tasks and may be inclined to avoid certain places at work which could end up making it harder for them to do their job. They may also struggle to feel comfortable in a group setting where the perpetrator is also part of the group. Other effects include wanting to quit, trouble sleeping and constant feelings of discomfort, embarrassment and anxiety.
