Inappropriate behavior and incidents of sexual harassment could contribute to a hostile work environment at a Delaware office. Assumptions that sexual harassment only happens in specific industries might be incorrect, as incidents occur in many business environments. Recently, a high-profile scandal involving a well-known gaming company hit the news. The reports highlight how pervasive sexual harassment can be in the entertainment and technology world.
A top company finds itself embroiled in controversy
Activision Blizzard Inc., a high-profile company known for its popular gaming releases, now suffers from a reputation-altering sexual harassment scandal. Reportedly, Activision Blizzard fostered a corporate culture that subjected female employees to inappropriate conduct.
The California Department of Fair Employment and Housing filed a lawsuit against the company claiming many violations, including not paying women employees the same wages as men. The various incidents of sexual harassment at the enterprise suggest unwanted advances, touching, comments, and more created a hostile work environment for many women.
Some wonder if Activision Blizzard will pay a punitive price for its misogynistic culture. Time will reveal the answer, but the damage to its reputation might hurt the company in the marketplace.
Pervasive sexual harassment in the workplace
Despite the many laws and raised awareness about sexual harassment, men and women alike may experience troubling treatment at work. The problems could be part of a company’s cultural landscape, and changes might prove impossible unless a public relations crisis and lawsuits happen.
Unfortunately, if a company’s management looks the other way at harassment and discrimination or, worse, contributes to these problems, things won’t likely improve. Retaliation against whistleblowers may leave some to stay quiet or opt to quit. Years might pass before someone takes action.
