Workplace Abuse

Exploitation in the Workplace

Countless employees across the country experience unwanted advances and physical acts every day, often feeling pressured to endure these behaviors to keep their jobs or avoid negative consequences.

Workplace sexual abuse can be perpetrated by various individuals, including customers, clients, colleagues, or supervisors. Certain situations can increase the risk of abuse. For example, research indicates that employees who depend on tips or work in isolated fields—such as hospitality, agriculture, or in-home services—face higher rates of sexual harassment and assault. Other risk factors, especially for women, include lacking legal immigration status, working in male-dominated jobs, and being in environments with significant power imbalances between employees and superiors.

Professionals Abusing Their Authority

Sexual assault and harassment in the workplace can have long-lasting negative effects on the victim, including physical and mental health issues, loss of job opportunities, termination due to retaliation, and social stigma.