Time's up for harassment

     Sexual harassment is a shy subject for many people. However, once a harassment situation has been noticed and people feel the need to address it, there are steps that can be taken to do so. These steps can be followed by communities, businesses, institutions, and individuals. When acting decisively, a victim or bystander can have a major impact in ending the problem. Below are some of the most common ways to achieve this.

     1.) Redirecting focus—When it comes to stopping harassment, a lot of people think the only approach is direct confrontation, but sometimes it can lead to backlash. If direct intervention isn’t comfortable or possible, it’s recommended to do something that stops the harassment in an under-the-radar way. For example, switching seats with someone on the bus to prevent them from being harassed.

     2.) Making allies—The silence around sexual harassment makes it a destructive topic. However, people who come together and raise their voices can reduce harassment in dramatic ways. When people coordinate their efforts with those of like-minded others, their positive impact multiplies.

     3.) Making strong pre-emptive moves—Harassers typically act only in situations where they feel comfortable. Using knowledge of their tendencies can help prevent potential incidents before they happen.