Workplace Harassment: Discrimination & Bullying at Work

Ever heard comments like, "You’re too old to keep up with this job", "Your work is pathetic”, "Women aren’t suited for leadership roles". Undoubtedly, these words are heartbreaking and are enough to scatter your dignity into pieces. Such remarks have been rooted down to Workplace Harassment for ages and need immediate attention to safeguard employees' well-being. This blog explains Workplace Harassment, its types and how you can protect your rights effectively.

Table of Contents

1) Understanding Workplace Harassment?

2) What Constitutes Harassment?

3) Types of Workplace Harassment

4) Harassment Related to a Protected Characteristic

5) How to Report Workplace Harassment?

6) Differences Between Bullying and Harassment

7) Conclusion

Understanding Workplace Harassment?

Workplace Harassment remains one of the most pressing issues across organisations today, taking several forms such as bullying, mobbing, discrimination, and workplace aggression. According to the latest Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) report, one in four employees experienced some form of harassment or conflict at work over the past year.

The most pervasive types of harassment reported:

a) 31% of employees reported being publicly humiliated or criticised at work.

b) 43% experienced verbal abuse, including shouting and insults.

c) 35% faced workplace conflicts or arguments with colleagues or superiors.

d) Only 36% felt their complaints or conflicts were effectively resolved despite existing company policies.

These figures reveal a significant gap between employee experiences and employer action, underlining the urgent need for stronger preventative frameworks, improved reporting mechanisms, and consistent enforcement of anti-harassment policies in workplaces.

What Constitutes Harassment?

Workplace Harassment refers to any unwelcome behaviour that causes physical, emotional, or psychological distress to an employee. It can take many forms and often violates a person’s dignity or creates an intimidating atmosphere at work.

Unwanted Conduct

This includes inappropriate actions, gestures, or remarks that are offensive, demeaning, or discriminatory, whether intentional or not.

Impact on Dignity

Harassment undermines an individual’s self-worth, respect, and confidence, making them feel devalued or unsafe in their professional environment.

Hostile Environment

When repeated behaviours create fear, discomfort, or tension in the workplace, it leads to a toxic or hostile work environment that affects productivity and mental well-being.

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Types of Workplace Harassment

Workplace Harassment goes by various names, but here are some of the most experienced Harassment types:

1) Psychological Harassment

This is when someone tries to break your spirit without lifting a finger.

a) Includes constant nitpicking, sarcastic remarks, or silent disapproval stares.

b) It is sneaky and often disguised as "just feedback."

c) Over time, it chips away at confidence and peace of mind.

d) A positive work culture and open support can help spot it early.

2) Physical Harassment

This happens when personal space is treated like a public park.

a) Includes unwanted touching, pushing, or blocking someone’s path.

b) Even small gestures feel huge when repeated or aggressive.

c) It creates discomfort and makes people want to teleport out of the situation.

d) Clear boundaries and zero-tolerance rules keep everyone safe.

3) Verbal Harassment

This is when words are used as weapons instead of communication.

a) Includes rude jokes, mocking comments, or “just kidding” insults.

b) Can happen in meetings, messages, or even passing comments.

c) It slowly affects confidence and mood, even if brushed off at first.

d) Encouraging respectful humour and speech keeps the workspace healthy.

4) Sexual Harassment

This occurs when someone mistakes the workplace for a dating show.

a) Includes unwanted compliments, comments, or suggestive behaviour.

b) It makes the atmosphere tense instead of productive.

c) Many hesitate to speak up, thinking it will be dismissed.

d) Awareness and safe reporting channels help maintain respect.

5) Non-verbal Harassment

This is when looks and gestures do the talking, and not in a good way.

a) Includes staring, eye-rolling, or displaying offensive visuals.

b) Even without a word spoken, discomfort is loud and clear.

c) It affects how safe and included someone feels at work.

d) Gentle reminders and visual etiquette go a long way.

6) Work-related Harassment

Workplace bullying and harassment happen when tasks are handed out like punishments, not responsibilities.

a) Includes giving impossible deadlines or leaving someone out of key info.

b) Feels like being set up for failure even when trying your best.

c) Reduces motivation and creates unnecessary stress.

d) Fair task assignment keeps productivity and morale balanced.

7) Exclusion and Isolation

This is when someone gets treated like the invisible employee of the month.

a) Includes being left out of chats, invites, or team decisions.

b) Sends a quiet but strong message of “you don’t belong here.”

c) Can leave people feeling disconnected from the team.

d) Simple inclusivity gestures make a big difference in workplace culture.

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Harassment Related to a Protected Characteristic

Harassment in the workplace is defined by its impact, not intent. Even if harm was unintentional, behaviour that causes distress or creates a hostile atmosphere can still be considered harassment. Employees must remain mindful of their actions, as even seemingly harmless conduct can be perceived as offensive or degrading in a professional environment.

Relevant Protected Characteristics

The Equality Act 2010 protects individuals from harassment based on the following characteristics: age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, gender, and sexual orientation. These safeguards ensure that everyone is treated with dignity, fairness, and respect in the workplace.

How to Report Workplace Harassment?

Each company has an HR department to help employees during serious situations, ensuring their well-being and employment stability. Good HR practices are crucial when employees experience discomfort, danger, or feeling threatened by a coworker.

Although numerous organisations possess strong anti-Harassment policies, smaller organisations may lack them. Here’s how one can report Workplace Harassment:

a) Document the Incident: Retain a detailed record of the Harassment along with date, time, location and witnesses.

b) Review Company Policies: Educate yourself about the organisation’s harassment procedures and policies.

c) Seek Support: Consult a workplace advocate or trustworthy coworker to gain emotional support

d) File a Legal Complaint: File a complaint to the HR department

e) Maintain Professionalism: Maintain professionalism throughout the reporting process

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Differences Between Bullying and Harassment

Understanding ‘What is Workplace Harassment’ and how it differs from bullying helps create safer and more respectful work environments. Recognising the subtle and direct forms of harassment and bullying is the first step toward prevention and building a culture of dignity at work.

Conclusion

Workplace Harassment is a usual issue that require immediate attention. From sexual misbehaviour to psychological abuse, it can take up many forms. If you experience such inappropriate misconduct or action in workspace, don’t hesitate to file a report to the Human Resource department. This protects your mental health and dignity, paving a more supportive and efficient workplace environment for other employees.

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