New Mexico, How can a person tell if they have been sexually harassed at work?
If another person’s behavior such as a manager or co-worker has made an employee feel uncomfortable or worried their job could be put on the line if they don’t participate in the sexual activity that is being asked of them, they may be a victim of sexual harassment. There are many types of behaviors that constitute as sexual harassment some of which include:
- Requests for sexual favors.
- Telling an employee they could be demoted or denied a promotion if they refuse to give in to the sexual favors that are being requested.
- Making subtle hand touches or comments that continue to grow more serious and happen more frequently.
- Discuss sexual relations or stories with an employee.
- Making unwanted sexual advances.
- Sending unwanted sexually explicit photos, emails, or text messages.
- Being pressured to engage in sexual relations with someone such as an employer or client.
- Unwanted physical contact.
If an individual has been subjected to any of the above-mentioned types of behavior, they should consider scheduling a consultation with a New Mexico sexual harassment lawyer. A lawyer will be able to help them understand what types of behavior are considered forms of harassment and what can be done when an individual is being sexually harassed at work.
[Source: Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN)].
Reporting Sexual Harassment that Occurs in the Workplace
If an employee in New Mexico believes they are a victim of sexual harassment, they should report it to a manager, their human resources (HR) department, or even to a sexual harassment lawyer. The longer inappropriate behavior is allowed, the more serious it could get and the more of an impact it might have on an employee’s personal and professional life.
When an individual is being sexually harassed, they might begin to experience one or more of the following effects:
Emotional Effects
- Guilt
- Betrayal
- Fear
- Anger
- Shame
Mental Health Effects
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Substance abuse
- Panic attacks
Physical Effects
- Headaches
- Stress
- Eating disturbances
- Sleep disturbances
Sexual harassment has been and continues to be a serious issue in the workplace. Although individuals with some sort of status are recognized for sexual harassment more often than others, anyone in the workplace setting can be guilty of it. This includes supervisors, clients, customers, or even co-workers in other departments.
With that in mind, if an individual thinks they may be a victim of sexual harassment, they should consider contacting a lawyer to discuss the matter. Attorneys are required to keep conversations confidential so an individual can rest assured their information will be kept private. To get connected with a New Mexico sexual harassment lawyer in Albuquerque, Las Cruces, or any other city within the state, contact USAttorneys.com for help.
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