Every day, in Massachusetts and elsewhere, there are women and men who are subjected to unwanted sexual advances and inappropriate behavior by their co-workers. Sexual harassment is a very real issue, and the victims of it end up suffering in more ways than one. A recently published article directly addressed the damaging effects sexual harassment has on women, and what researchers have found may be surprising to some.

According to the article, the American Association of University Women found that women who are subjected to sexual harassment in the workplace end up having fewer job opportunities, make less money than their co-workers, experience depression, may experience post-traumatic stress disorder and have a higher risk of developing long-term health problems — among other things. A survey conducted by the AAUW found that 38% of women who are harassed in the workplace end up leaving their jobs early, while 37% claim that the harassment slowed their career advancement. Still, sexual harassment, in many cases, ends up going unreported — why?

Roughly four out of every 10 people believe that reporting sexual harassment will not do them any good. They do not think that their employers will take their complaints seriously. They do believe, however, that they will be retaliated against if they file a formal claim.

No one should have to put up with sexual harassment in the workplace. Those who are victims should not have to fear how they will be treated for reporting it. With the assistance of legal counsel, victims of sexual harassment in the state of Massachusetts may take steps to stop the abuse, hold all responsible parties accountable for their actions and seek compensation for any losses experienced.