Harassment
The dictionary definition of harassment is “to torment, worry”.
Harassment is very difficult to define because it can take many forms. It can be directed at an individual or a group. It is the effect that it has on an individual that is important, no the intention of the harasser. Whatever for the harassment takes it is unwelcome and unwanted and is both stressful and intimidation for the victim. Bullying is also a form of harassment.
Examples may include:
- Verbal abuse or taunting.
- Racist and / or sexist comments or jokes.
- Ignoring someone.
- Unwanted physical contact.
- Unfair allocation of work.
- Display or circulation of offensive materials / books etc.
- Intrusive questioning about ethnic origin.
- Unnecessary references to sex.