Why Verbal Harassment in the Workplace is a Problem

Anna Elliott

WRIT-103-41

Professor Entzminger

April 21, 2025

Why Verbal Harassment in the Workplace is a Problem

Have you ever encountered a case of verbal harassment in the workplace between a manager and an employee? Many individuals have encountered some sort of verbal harassment in a workplace. Verbal harassment in the workplace can refer to any kind of verbal interaction that creates a hostile or intimidating environment. Some tactics that are used include yelling, name-calling, inappropriate jokes, offensive comments, or constant criticism. It can undermine someone’s confidence or how well they perform their job duties. Harassment often likes to target for an individual's gender, race, age, religion, or other characteristics.

Some individuals may not agree with the term “workplace harassment”. They may believe that it isn’t workplace harassment. They may just think that it is a natural disagreement between employees. What they don’t see is the effects it takes on others. Harassment is a big problem in companies. No matter how big or small the company is, harassment can occur. It isn’t something that should happen and steps need to be taken in order for companies to make sure the harassment is taken care of.

Many workplaces often lack in the training they provide for harassment and the ways to avoid it. Companies need to train all employees regardless of what knowledge they have on workplace harassment and their opinion on it. They need to recognize the harassment, learn how to avoid it, and know how to report it to the correct individuals.

            According to EverFi, “With 66% of US employees saying they had experienced or witnessed incivility in the month before the survey was conducted – 57% say they had experienced or witnessed it in the prior week.” This shows that harassment occurs in the workplace more times than it should. People’s mental health can be affected by this. Some of the symptoms that could occur include anxiety, depression, low-esteem, sleep problems, etc.

        The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission states "The Study of Harassment in the Workplace identified five core principles that have generally proven effective in preventing and addressing harassment: Committed and engaged leadership, consistent and demonstrated accountability, strong and comprehensive harassment policies, trusted and accessible complaint procedures, and regular interactive training tailored to the audience and the organization." By having these core principles, it allows for a proactive and supportive environment, it helps to steer away from harassment and encourages for others to have a respectful behavior in the workplace. By working with these principles, it allows for companies to have a safer and healthier work environment.

            By putting in measures at the workplace, it allows for ways to prevent and be prepared for any sort of harassment. Whether it is verbal, sexual, physical, etc, we can take steps to avoid and be prepared for the harassment. By having training procedures in place, companies can train the employees and educate them on the risks of workplace harassment. Policies can be put in place to have a better grasp on the harassment that may occur. All employees should have a safe place at work if such harassment does occur. They should be protected by the workplace.

            Every workplace should have a plan in place should such harassment occur. Many workplaces have a no-tolerance policy for bullying or any type of harassment. In most cases, any type of harassment can lead to being let go from the job. “Any employee who has questions or concerns about these policies should talk with the director of human resources”. Even if the harassment isn’t directly regarding you, it is a good idea to report it. A member of the team may not feel comfortable reporting it. By you reporting it, this allows for the company to be informed on what's going on and ways they can assist with it. 

    Verbal harassment in the workplace can cause a major issue that can undermine the employee morale, can damage the individual’s mental health, and can negatively impact productivity. The harassment between one another can happen through insults, belittling, jokes, or an aggressive language. It creates a major toxic environment for people. It can lead to high no-show rates, not showing up for work constantly, and even some legal issues for employers. By addressing and explaining the verbal harassment to the company, it gives a moral and strategic imperative. The employers should lay down clear policies, provide regular training to the employees often, and promote a family of respect and accountability. It proves that all of the employees can feel safe and valued while at the workplace.

     In conclusion, any victims of verbal harassment should be encouraged to reach out to the HR department without a fear of retaliation. Proper steps must be in place in order to handle the complaints effectively and fairly that come from the employees. By taking steps to avoid the verbal harassment, it takes a team of leadership and policies. When the workplaces work to promote forms of communication, empathy, and inclusivity, it allows for them to create an environment where everyone can flourish. By tackling the verbal harassment situation head-on and early, the organization can protect the employees. This can enhance overall performance of employees and help with reputations among individuals. By taking measures to ensure the safety of others with harassment, it allows for the employees to have a safe workplace and overall feel welcomed.