Workplace Research Monthly

LGBTQ+ employees suffer 'double burden' with workplace sexual harassment

Workplace sexual harassment is a critical and increasing risk for organisations. An Australian review examining the impacts of workplace sexual harassment according to LGBTQ+ status found that negative impacts are greater for LGBTQ+ employees, and this difference is even more so for experiences of harassment within the last 12 months. It also showed that negative impacts can be felt across all areas of employee wellbeing.

The study revealed that LGBTQ+ employees suffer a ‘double burden’. They are not only more likely to be exposed to workplace sexual harassment but also experience more profound decreases in wellbeing when it occurs.

These findings demonstrate the need for holistic programs to combat workplace sexual harassment and targeted responses to support LGBTQ+ employees.

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