Many people think about things like physical touch when they hear about sexual harassment, but that’s not the only actions that can constitute sexual harassment. Some of the most dangerous forms of harassment are more subtle, persistent and psychological.
Covert sexual harassment can lead to significant harm to the targeted employee. It may also be damaging to others around them who are subjected to the covert sexual harassment.
More than just a one-off event
People who are using covert sexual harassment will often try to mask it as something innocent. They may claim their comments were only a harmless, but off-color joke, or that their stares weren’t anything creepy. Even though there’s no physical contact, these behaviors, when done multiple times, can be considered sexual harassment.
Employees who face covert sexual harassment often find that it can be difficult to prove because of a lack of firm documentation. Keeping notes about the incidents and hanging on to things like emails or text messages may help, but those aren’t always present in these cases.
One of the issues of covert sexual harassment is that it may escalate quickly if the harasser thinks their behaviors aren’t being noticed. It may be difficult for victims to speak up, but they should try to do so quickly so things don’t get out of hand. Their employer should begin an investigation and take appropriate action once the employee speaks out.
Victims of covert sexual harassment may opt to pursue legal action, but this is likely going to be a complex undertaking. Working with someone familiar with these matters may be beneficial for these victims. They can focus on healing from the harassment while their case is being handled.