Sexual Harassment in the Workplace in Springfield, Massachusetts: Study Finds that Ostracism May Be Just as Damaging

             The media often discusses the damaging effects that sexual harassment can have on workers. Sexual harassment and wrongful termination laws protect individuals who have suffered in the workplace as a result on unwanted sexual behavior. Sexual harassment includes unwanted sexual advances, sexual talk, or requests for sexual favors. Individuals who have faced sexual harassment have sometimes been threatened with their job security for reporting harassment. The law offers individuals important protections against sexual harassment. A lawyer like Raymond Dinsmore with DinsmoreStark Law Offices may be able to assist you in getting you the justice you deserve if you faced sexual harassment or lost your job for calling out a supervisor or co-worker.

            Yet, there are other ways that work environments can be toxic. The Huffington Post recently reported on a Canadian study that shows that workplace ostracism can actually be more harmful than harassment or bullying. Ostracism occurs when co-workers or supervisors ignore you socially or exclude you in the workplace. For instance, a person being ostracized in the workplace may be excluded from parties, ignored during lunch, or not be invited to meetings he or she would otherwise be asked to attend. Ostracism can occur for a variety of reasons, but when it occurs in retaliation to accusations of harassment, it can be particularly devastating. A toxic workplace can become so stressful that employers avoid accusations of wrongful termination because the employee quits. Employers or co-workers may use ostracism to get you to leave so that they can avoid any accusations of wrongful termination.

            The effects of workplace ostracism can be psychologically damaging and profound. People who were ostracized experienced difficulties in their physical health and also experienced less work satisfaction. Job performance also suffered and individuals facing ostracism were also more likely to quit. Unfortunately, employers don't take workplace ostracism as seriously as they take sexual harassment or other forms of more overt bullying. The result can be devastating for employees affected.

            Being ignored is extremely painful. According to one Purdue University study, the pain of being ignored can last longer than physical pain. When people are ignored, the parts of the brain that respond to physical pain are activated. When ostracism continues for long periods of time, it can lead to depression, helplessness, and feelings of worthlessness. The psychological and physical impact of ostracism needs to be taken seriously.

            If you believe you are being ostracized at work, it is important to take action. Speak to your human resources department, if possible, so that a neutral party is aware of what is happening. Put your concerns in writing. If you feel that you are being ostracized with the intention to get you to quit, it may also be a good idea to consult a wrongful termination lawyer in Springfield, Massachusetts. A qualified lawyer can review the details of your case and help you take action. You have the right to have a safe and healthy workplace. No one should have to suffer psychological damage while on the job. Visit the legal website of DinsmoreStark Law Offices at www.dinsmorestark.com.