Verbal, Visual, and Physical Harassment
Verbal, visual, and physical harassment are a serious issue that can have damaging effects for individuals and the entire organization. Regardless of the type of harassment, it creates an environment of fear and intimidation that can lead to long-term feelings of anxiety and depression. This chapter will discuss the different types of harassment, the psychological impact of harassment, and how to respond to it.
Verbal harassment in the workplace
Verbal harassment in the workplace is a serious problem that can have a negative impact on the morale of employees and their productivity. It can include offensive comments, jokes, insults, and name-calling, and can create an intimidating, hostile work environment. If a person feels they are being subjected to verbal harassment, they should report it to their supervisor or human resources department. The company should have a clear policy on how to handle and prevent verbal harassment in the workplace.
What does Visual Harassment look like?
Visual harassment in the workplace can take many forms. It can range from a colleague making inappropriate comments about a person's appearance or body language to staring at someone in a leering or intimidating manner. It can also involve the display of offensive or degrading images, such as posters, cartoons, or objects in a workspace. Oftentimes, visual harassment is subtle and overlooked, but can still have a profound effect on the victim. This can create an environment of fear, anger, and humiliation. Visual harassment can lead to stress, anxiety, and can even lead to an employee feeling unsafe or uncomfortable in their own workplace.
Harassment can take many forms and it is important to be aware of the different types of harassment so that we can protect ourselves and those around us. We will discuss the three main types of harassment: verbal, visual, and physical. We will also provide examples of each type so that you can recognize it if you ever encounter it.
- Making derogatory comments or jokes about someone’s race, gender, religion, or other personal characteristics
- Making rude or threatening remarks
- Spreading rumors or gossip about someone
- Sending offensive or abusive emails or text messages
- Yelling or screaming at someone
- Making obscene gestures or faces
- Posting offensive pictures or cartoons
- Making suggestive or offensive movements with hands or body
- Displaying offensive posters or graffiti
- Unwanted touching or groping
- Unwelcome hugs or kisses
- Spitting or throwing objects
- Blocking someone’s path or pushing them
- Making threatening gestures or physically intimidating someone
Impact of Physical Harassment in the workplace
Physical harassment in the workplace can have a significant impact on employees. Not only can it create a hostile work environment and lead to a decrease in morale, it can also lead to higher levels of stress and anxiety among employees. Additionally, physical harassment can lead to decreased productivity and can even result in long-term physical or psychological damage. It is important for organizations to take physical harassment seriously and to have policies in place to address it appropriately.
Myths surrounding Verbal, Visual, and Physical Harassment
Sexual harassment is a serious issue and unfortunately, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding it. These myths can lead to victims of sexual harassment feeling isolated, misunderstood, and unsupported. Here are some myths to look out for:
Here are some myths to look out for:
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Verbal harassment is always intentional.
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Visual harassment is not as serious as physical harassment.
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Physical harassment is always violent or aggressive
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Verbal, visual, or physical harassment is only illegal if it is done in the workplace.
Promote a safe work environment through employee education
Organizations can develop an inclusive and respectful culture by being proactive with employee education. Clear definitions of verbal, visual, and physical harassment, a review of the company's policies and procedures regarding these types of harassment, as well as the reporting process for any such incidents, should all be covered in employee education. Employees should also regularly receive training on how to identify and stop workplace harassment.
Helping over 8,000+ organizations create a safer, more inclusive company culture.
Sexual Harassment prevention is an essential training course to ensure that employees are aware of their duty to report any behavior of a sexual nature that is unwelcome. The course covers:
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