Log in or become a subscriber
This content requires a basic HR Daily subscription. Log in below or sign up for free.
Doubts about whether conduct is "serious enough" hinder harassment reporting
Obstacles that hold employees back from reporting workplace s-xual harassment include psychological factors that should receive more attention in HR strategies, researchers say.
Two newly published studies, both led by Flinders University senior lecturer in mental health and wellbeing, Dr Annabelle Neall, examine common barriers to reporting incidents of workplace sexual harassment, and how reports and investigations are handled.
The first study involved surveys and interviews with more than 200 employees who had either been the target of or had witnessed workplace sexual harassment (WSH).
It found that feeling unclear about whether the behaviour is "serious enough", and bystanders thinking it's "not their place" to report, are common barriers.
Some witnesses also feared that reporting WSH would make matters worse, not better, for the person on the receiving end...
Having trouble using your subscription? Contact us for help or check our FAQ page here for answers to commonly asked questions.
Haven't seen HR Daily before?
Sign up now for your free HR Daily newsletter subscription.
Written specifically for human resources practitioners, our articles will keep you informed about all the important HR news, thought leadership and trends. You'll receive:
Access to all our free editorial Four-plus new articles each week Excerpts from our compliance and best-practice webcasts Event invitations And much more