Sexual harassment creates a hostile work environment. Unfortunately, many cases go unreported, leading to some people feeling uncomfortable for years in their workplace. One of the reasons sexual harassment is underreported is that cases are downplayed.
Incidents that constitute harassment are often not viewed as such or are even normalized in the office. Here are three factors that might contribute to the downplaying sexual harassment:
Myths about male victimization
The belief that women are the only ones who can be victims of sexual harassment and that abuse from a woman is not serious are examples of myths that cause some men to downplay sexual harassment. It can be harder for a man to report because they believe their case will not be taken seriously.
Sexual harassment at work can happen to both males and females. If anyone makes unwanted sexual advances to you, creating a hostile work environment for you, report them.
Reliance on heterosexual models
Some workplaces and legal frameworks rely on heterosexual models when defining sexual harassment or during prevention training. Emphasis on heterosexuality can make it difficult for employees to notice when same-sex harassment happens.
The Illinois Department of Human Rights reminds residents that victims of sexual harassment and harassers at work can be members of the opposite or same sex.
Women are socialized to downplay cases
Workplaces with masculine norms, in most cases, socialize women to downplay sexual harassment. Typically, these workplaces promote assertiveness, competitiveness, and dominance as qualities of a reliable employee. Thus, women can tolerate a lot, including sexual jokes, to be seen as part of the high-status group.
Sexual harassment is illegal. If you are treated in a way that feels like harassment, it probably is. Get legal guidance to learn more about your rights.