Define "hostile work environment" harassment.

"Hostile work environment" harassment refers to a situation where unwelcome conduct creates an intimidating, hostile, or abusive atmosphere in the workplace. This type of harassment can manifest through verbal comments, physical conduct, or even visual displays that are offensive or derogatory, and it impacts an employee's ability to perform their job effectively.

For conduct to qualify as creating a hostile work environment, it must be severe or pervasive enough to alter the conditions of employment. This means that the behavior not only affects the individual experiencing it but can also negatively impact the overall workplace culture. The focus is on the nature of the conduct and how it affects the targeted employee's psychological well-being and job performance.

The other options do not accurately reflect the definition of a hostile work environment. A protest against management decisions may involve workplace discussions or disagreements, but it is not inherently harassing unless it includes unwelcome conduct that intimidates or offends individuals. Similarly, a disagreement between coworkers may be a normal part of professional interactions and does not qualify as harassment unless it escalates to unwelcome and abusive behavior. Lastly, any form of workplace competition, while it may be intense or aggressive, does not meet the criteria for harassment unless it crosses into unwelcome and threatening conduct.