What characterizes hostile-environment harassment?

Hostile-environment harassment is characterized by intimidating and offensive sexual comments or actions that create a work environment that is intimidating, hostile, or abusive. This type of harassment results from behaviors, remarks, or actions that are sexual in nature and make an individual feel uncomfortable or unwelcome in the workplace. The focus is on the impact of these behaviors on the victim, which can significantly disrupt their ability to perform their job effectively and contributes to an overall negative workplace culture.

The essence of hostile-environment harassment lies in the unwanted and inappropriate nature of the comments or actions that are pervasive enough to alter the conditions of employment, making individuals feel unsafe or demeaned in their work environment. It is a serious concern in many workplaces and is addressed under various workplace discrimination laws, emphasizing the need for a respectful and safe work environment free from such harassment.