How is harassment defined in an employment context?

Harassment in an employment context is defined as unwelcome conduct that demeans or shows aversion towards an individual based on a protected characteristic, such as race, gender, age, religion, or disability. This type of behavior can create a hostile or intimidating work environment for the affected individual. It is important to note that the conduct is considered harassment when it is not wanted and when it significantly alters the conditions of employment for the person being harassed.

In contrast, friendly workplace interactions, encouraging team bonding activities, or casual banter that is acceptable and mutual do not fall under the definition of harassment, as they do not involve demeaning or aversive behavior. The key distinction lies in the unwelcome nature of the conduct and its impact on an individual’s work experience, which emphasizes the detrimental effects that harassment can have in the workplace.