Workplace Ethics Outline You Did Hopefully

The Outline You Did Was On Workplace Ethics So You Hopefully You Got

The assignment requires selecting one issue affecting the workplace and working environment, potentially narrowing it down to a subtopic. The paper should discuss the chosen issue, its impact on the work environment, and how it has or is currently affecting the writer's or an actual work environment. Additionally, the paper must analyze potential solutions using social controls such as laws, organizational policies, training, or government and corporate involvement. The discussion should include potential social or economic benefits resulting from implementing the recommended changes.

The issues to choose from include retirement issues, balancing family and work life, workplace violence, ethical behavior, substance abuse, and sexual harassment. The paper must be between eight and ten pages, double-spaced, formatted according to APA style, and include a title page and references.

At least five scholarly resources are required, with three sourced from the Ashford Online Library. All sources must be cited in-text and on the reference page following APA guidelines. The paper must include an introductory paragraph with a clear thesis statement, develop the topic with critical thought, and conclude by reaffirming the thesis.

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Paper For Above instruction

Impact of Workplace Sexual Harassment and Strategies for Mitigation

Workplace sexual harassment remains a pervasive issue that undermines the safety, dignity, and productivity of employees across various organizational settings. This paper explores the multifaceted nature of sexual harassment in the workplace, its impact on organizational culture and individual well-being, and evaluates social control strategies—such as laws, policies, and educational initiatives—that can mitigate this problem. By analyzing these approaches and their potential benefits, the paper advocates for comprehensive measures to foster respectful and equitable work environments.

Sexual harassment in the workplace constitutes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of sexual nature that can interfere with an employee's work performance or create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment. According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC, 2020), sexual harassment is a violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and remains a significant legal and social concern. Despite increased awareness and legislative efforts, incidents of harassment continue to affect employees worldwide, significantly impacting mental health, job satisfaction, and organizational reputation.

The effects of workplace sexual harassment extend beyond individual distress, influencing broader organizational outcomes. Employees subjected to harassment often experience anxiety, depression, and a decline in self-esteem, which can impair their work performance (Fitzgerald & Shullman, 2018). Furthermore, organizations confronting harassment issues tend to face increased absenteeism, higher turnover rates, and legal costs associated with harassment claims (Keenan & McMahon, 2020). Notably, harassment cases also contribute to a toxic workplace culture, discouraging diversity and inclusion efforts crucial for innovation and competitiveness.

Addressing workplace sexual harassment requires multi-layered social control strategies. Legal interventions, such as comprehensive anti-discrimination laws and clear reporting procedures, provide the framework necessary to deter harassment and protect victims (Bryson, 2019). Employers are also mandated to develop and enforce organizational policies that explicitly prohibit harassment, establish reporting mechanisms, and outline disciplinary actions. These policies must be communicated effectively to all employees to foster a culture of accountability and respect (Fitzgerald et al., 2021).

Training and education constitute critical components within social control strategies. Regular workshops and seminars can increase awareness about what constitutes harassment, emphasize the importance of boundaries, and equip employees and managers with skills to intervene appropriately (Armstrong et al., 2022). Evidence suggests that proactive training reduces the incidence of harassment and enhances perceptions of organizational support (Cortina & Berdahl, 2021). Moreover, fostering an environment where employees feel safe and supported when reporting incidents is essential. Implementing anonymous reporting systems and ensuring thorough investigations demonstrate organizational commitment to zero tolerance policies.

Government involvement plays a vital role in reinforcing organizational efforts. Agencies such as the EEOC provide guidance, enforce compliance, and issue penalties for non-adherence (EEOC, 2020). Public awareness campaigns and legal reforms can also shift societal norms by emphasizing the unacceptable nature of harassment and promoting respect and dignity. At the organizational level, corporate involvement through leadership endorsement, resource allocation, and ongoing policy review ensures sustained progress towards harassment-free workplaces (Smith & Tang, 2020).

The potential social benefits of robust anti-harassment strategies include increased employee morale, improved mental health, and higher productivity. Economically, organizations can reduce costs associated with lawsuits, turnover, and absenteeism. A safe, respectful environment also enhances an organization's reputation, facilitating better talent acquisition and retention (Keenan & McMahon, 2020). Importantly, societal normalization of respectful behaviors can contribute to broader cultural shifts towards gender equality and social justice.

In conclusion, tackling workplace sexual harassment necessitates a comprehensive approach integrating legal measures, organizational policies, educational initiatives, and societal involvement. The combined effect of these strategies can create safer work environments that promote equality, productivity, and organizational integrity. By investing in these social controls, organizations not only fulfill legal obligations but also affirm their commitment to human dignity and respect, ultimately benefiting society as a whole.

References

  • Armstrong, A., Smith, J., & Johnson, L. (2022). Workplace harassment prevention training: Effectiveness and best practices. Journal of Organizational Behavior, 43(2), 215-232.
  • Bryson, J. (2019). Legal frameworks for preventing sexual harassment in the workplace. Employment Law Journal, 34(4), 118-130.
  • Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). (2020). Sexual harassment. Retrieved from https://www.eeoc.gov
  • Fitzgerald, L. F., & Shullman, S. L. (2018). The psychological impact of sexual harassment. Psychology of Women Quarterly, 42(1), 78-92.
  • Fitzgerald, L. F., Gelfand, M. J., & Drasgow, F. (2021). Measuring sexual harassment: Theoretical and empirical advances. American Journal of Community Psychology, 69(3-4), 395-410.
  • Keenan, B., & McMahon, I. (2020). Organizational strategies to combat sexual harassment. Harvard Business Review, 98(5), 54-61.
  • Smith, R., & Tang, S. (2020). Leadership and corporate responsibilities in preventing workplace harassment. Journal of Business Ethics, 162(3), 559-572.