Insecurity should not give way to sexual harassment

In a best case scenario, workers would have employers and managers who foster encouraging environments. Unfortunately, many New York workers know that is not always the situation that many employees face. Sexual harassment runs rampant in many industries, and these misbehaviors may be carried out by individuals in positions of power.

Due to their roles in the company, it is common for people to think that higher-ups sexually harass subordinates as a way to show their power and to coerce others into getting what they want. However, a research study was recently conducted into this type of behavior and its possible driving forces. Three studies were conducted, and results indicated that many parties in positions of power felt insecure about possibly being seen as incompetent. As a result, they harassed individuals in lower positions in hopes of maintaining their positions.

In hopes of preventing such feelings and resulting actions, places of employment may want to attempt to create more encouraging work environments. Recognizing strengths may help prevent negative actions that individuals use to offset their insecurities. Additionally, prevention training should take place at all levels of employment and not just for managers or other higher-ups. 

Whether someone feels insecure or not, it does not give them the right to harass another worker. If New York residents have been the victims of sexual harassment while on the job, they may want to understand their options for addressing the situation. In most cases, employers have policies for filing complaints and investigating such occurrences. However, if the complaints are not taken seriously, individuals do have legal options they may wish to explore.

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