Sexual harassment in the workplace is strictly prohibited. However, studies consistently find that it is also underreported. Many people experience harassment and never speak up or take any other steps.
One potential reason why this happens is because they are worried about facing retaliation. This retaliation could include a variety of negative consequences, such as:
- Being terminated from a job
- Having their wages or hours cut
- Being passed over for promotions
- Being labeled a troublemaker in the workplace
- Being blackballed within the industry
- Being given unpreferred hours, duties or obligations
- Being passed over for raises or given poor performance reviews
Essentially, employees know that the sexual harassment was prohibited, but they are worried about saying something and making their situation even worse.
One important thing to keep in mind is that this type of retaliation is also illegal. Employers need to take sexual harassment seriously and cannot retaliate against employees or threaten to do so.
Women face an elevated risk of retaliation
Both men and women can face sexual harassment, and both can also face potential retaliation. Often, power dynamics within the workplace matter more than gender.
That being said, some studies have found that women face retaliation or negative consequences more often than men if they report sexual harassment. It is important for them to understand that this happens and what steps they can take to protect their rights as employees.
Whether you are facing sexual harassment on the job or worried about facing illegal retaliation if you speak up, be sure you know what legal options you have moving forward.