How Sexual Harassment Harms the Workplace
Sexual harassment can happen unexpectedly and often feels ambiguous, leaving those affected questioning why it happened to them. With the stigma around sexual harassment, recognizing and preventing sexual harassment in the workplace is a challenge. However, instances of workplace sexual harassment can be decreased if certain practices are adopted. If you have suffered through workplace sexual harassment in Oklahoma City or the surrounding communities, the lawyers at Putnam Law can help.
Addressing Workplace Sexual Harassment in Oklahoma
There are two main types of sexual harassment as defined by federal law; quid pro quo and hostile work environment.
Under quid pro quo sexual harassment, a supervisor commands an employee to perform a sexual act in exchange for a raise, promotion, or even just to keep one’s job. These acts are typically called sexual favors and can range from a kiss to sex.
A hostile work environment occurs when there is repeated sexually based behaviors committed by a supervisor or a co-worker. Actions like touching a coworkers butt or grabbing their breasts can build a hostile working environment where employees feel uncomfortable coming to work.
Either quid pro quo or hostile work environment behaviors is considered a violation of another’s rights. Through coercion and psychological or physical abuse, abusers use their power to influence and force another to cooperate. These sexual harassment behaviors typically escalate, starting out small and increasing to more and more abusive behaviors.
How Sexual Harassment Damages a Company
Just as the victims are negatively affected by sexual harassment, the company itself and its finances can also be harmed. Sexual harassment charges can harm anyone’s reputation, and companies are not excluded from this. When a company’s supervisor, CEO, or other members of management is charged with sexual assault, that company’s public relations and perception can be severely damaged.
In 2017, settlements paid from companies for sexual harassment charges exceeded $46 million in employee benefits. These kinds of payouts may cripple a company’s foundation. Many employees leave a company or change jobs if a supervisor faces sexual harassment charges. For each employee that leaves, the future of the company becomes less clear.
Psychologically, sexual harassment decreases the victim’s motivation for their job. Victims of sexual abuse typically either quit or experience a severe decrease in their productivity.
Any form of workplace sexual harassment in the workplace can be damaging to both the employees and the company. It’s in a company’s best interest to prevent instances of sexual abuse.
Ways to End Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
Sexual harassment in the workplace can be discouraged through training and proactive steps to combat the problems. Company-wide meetings dedicated to discussing how sexual harassment can negatively affect both the employees and the company can create a workplace environment that doesn’t foster sexual abuse.
However, even in work environments that take the necessary steps to prevent sexual harassment, this abuse of power can still happen. If you’ve been the victim of sexual harassment, you need a qualified and local Oklahoma lawyer on your side.
Oklahoma Workplace Sexual Harassment Lawyer
If you’ve suffered sexual harassment in any location, contact the Oklahoma attorneys at the Putnam Law Office. You do not have to face the complicated legal necessities of a sexual harassment case alone. We are here to help you get justice. Mr. Putnam is a lawyer in Oklahoma City, OK who puts clients first and will work with you to get this situation resolved. Contact us now at (405)-849-9149.