Creating a Safe and Respectful Workplace Culture
Sexual harassment is a serious issue that affects many people in the workplace. In a recent podcast interview, psychologist Peta Slocombe emphasised the importance of creating a safe and respectful environment for all employees.
Understanding Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment can take many forms and is defined as any behaviour of a sexual nature that is unwelcome and makes a person feel offended, humiliated, or intimidated.
Breaking the Culture of Silence
One of the biggest obstacles in addressing sexual harassment is the culture of silence that often surrounds it. Many victims assume that they are the only ones experiencing the behaviour or that it is just a normal part of work life. However, Peta notes that no one deserves to be treated that way, regardless of their position or experience level.
"No one deserves to be treated that way, regardless of their position or experience level."
Prioritising Safety and Consent
In order to create a safe and respectful workplace culture, it is important to prioritise safety and consent. Peta emphasises that
"Everyone has a role to play in creating a workplace where harassment is not tolerated."
Whether you are a bystander, a perpetrator, or a victim, you can make a difference by calling out inappropriate behaviour in a respectful way, reflecting on your own actions, and looking for cues that someone may be uncomfortable.
The Role of Education and Awareness
Peta also stresses the importance of education and awareness in addressing sexual harassment. While the Sex Discrimination Act was enacted in 1984, there is still work to be done in educating people about what is and is not acceptable behaviour. By creating a culture of respect and accountability, we can work together to create a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected, and productivity can thrive.
Psychological Effects of Inappropriate Behaviour
Peta discusses the psychological effects of inappropriate behaviour on bystanders and staff. These effects can be categorised into short-term, medium-term, and long-term impacts.
Short-Term Effects
"Initially, people might not expect inappropriate behaviour and have an auto-response that differs from their reflective feelings."
They might try to absorb the behaviour into their normal repertoire, rationalising it as humour or an attempt to be comfortable.
Medium-Term Effects
Over time, people tend to change their behaviours to avoid uncomfortable situations, such as avoiding being alone with certain individuals or steering clear of certain groups.
Long-Term Effects
Longer-term effects can include anxiety, depression, self-doubt, and diminished self-confidence. These effects can persist and affect individuals even in different roles or organisations.
"Longer-term effects can include anxiety, depression, self-doubt, and diminished self-confidence."
Three Ways to Be Part of the Change
Call Out Inappropriate Behaviour:
Address inappropriate behaviour in a respectful way. This can help prevent the normalisation of such behaviour.
Reflect on Your Own Actions:
Regularly reflect on your behaviour and be mindful of how it might affect others. This helps in fostering a more respectful environment.
Look for Cues:
Be attentive to signs that someone may be uncomfortable and act accordingly to support them.
"By creating a culture of respect and accountability, we can work together to create a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected."