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Harassment
Practical Law Glossary Item 2-508-3174 (Approx. 4 pages)
Glossary
Harassment
In the employment context, unwelcome verbal or physical conduct that is based on an individual’s membership in a protected class. Harassment generally is unlawful if the conduct either:
- Results in a tangible employment action (such as termination of employment, demotion or change in compensation).
- Is sufficiently severe and pervasive to create a hostile work environment.
For more information, see Practice Note, Harassment.
Unlawful harassment is a form of employment discrimination that violates:
Many state laws also prohibit harassment by employers (for more information, see Anti-Discrimination Laws: State Q&A Tool: Question 3).
Although sexual harassment is the most common form of unlawful harassment, harassment can be based on other characteristics (such as race, national origin or religion) and can come in many forms. Examples of conduct that may be unlawful harassment include:
- Slurs and epithets.
- Unwelcome sexual advances or requests for sexual favors.
- Offensive jokes or comments.
- Inappropriate physical conduct.