The Workplace Harassment Meter & Resolution Options

There are different types of harassment and discrimination people may experience at work. There are also different levels of harassment. Not every type of harassment warrants the same reaction.

While it may be hard to assess someone’s intent, understanding the LEVEL of harassment can help you decide what options you have available. 

The Workplace Harassment Meter can help you determine the level of harassment you are experiencing. Along with defining the type of harassment you are experiencing (see definitions HERE), you can determine all your options before taking the next step toward a resolution.

For example, if someone is saying an inappropriate joke, going to the police is not relevant. But if you experience physical harassment, like assault, which is a criminal act, going to the police is one of many options available.  

Ignorant Harassment

  • The person is ignorant or unaware their behavior is unacceptable 
  • They don’t appear to have a motive
  • Usually occurs in plain site, out in the open 
  • References stereotypes to explain or reference behavior, in both positive and negative terms
  • Many times the people they are referring to are not in the room
  • Telling jokes or stories that reference gender, sexual orientation, race, color etc.
  • Often happens more than one time
  • May use terminology that was once socially acceptable

Resolution Options:

  • Address the behavior directly [HERE]
  • Report to your boss [HERE]
  • Report to Human Resources [HERE]

Disguised Harassment

  • Subtle, passive aggressive behavior
  • Intentional, motive driven
  • Creates a power imbalance
  • Can be explained away by harasser, gaslighting 
  • Difficult to prove
  • Thinly veiled propositions, innuendos etc.
  • Sharing inappropriate stories, jokes, media
  • Social touching, invading personal space

Resolution Options:

  • Address the behavior directly [HERE]
  • Report to your boss [HERE]
  • Report to Human Resources [HERE]

Direct Harassment

  • Direct, out in the open, intentional and with motive
  • Harasser will most likely have status at the company
  • Harasser feels confident they won’t be held accountable
  • Propositions with or without implied threat
  • Quid pro quo proposition
  • Sharing inappropriate stories, jokes, media
  • Touching, invading personal space

Resolution Options:

  • Report to Human Resources [HERE]
  • File complaint with EEOC [HERE]
  • Consult an Attorney [HERE]

Criminal Harassment

  • Direct, with intent
  • Indecent exposure
  • Physical assault
  • Sexual assault
  • Threatening assault with bodily harm, use of weapon
  • Stalking

Resolution Options:

  • Report to Human Resources [HERE]
  • File complaint with EEOC [HERE]
  • Consult an Attorney [HERE]
  • File charges with your local police department [See RAINN for more information resources and options]

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