Different Responses to Workplace Sexual Harassment by Gender

 Posted on August 31, 2025 in Sexual Harassment

A new study co-written by a team of University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign experts who study workplace sexual harassment has definitively shown something many of us already suspected. Men and women often respond differently when they witness workplace sexual harassment. The way co-workers respond to a victim’s sexual harassment in the workplace can significantly impact the victim’s willingness to report and even the victim’s healing process and well-being.

Supportive co-workers can give victims of workplace sexual harassment the "push" they may need to report sexual harassment, when they fear retaliation or not being believed. If you are a victim of workplace sexual harassment, reporting the harassment is vital. You should never have to work in a hostile work environment where sexual harassment is accepted. An experienced Wheaton, IL sexual harassment attorney will ensure your rights and your future are protected.

How Do Men and Women Respond Differently to Witnessing Workplace Sexual Harassment?

Women typically show higher levels of empathy to victims of workplace sexual harassment (775 ILCS 5/ Illinois Human Rights Act) and are more likely to intervene on behalf of the victim. Men, on the other hand, may simply disengage after witnessing sexual harassment, although they may have strong feelings of anger and may be stressed, even if they cannot identify the cause of their anger and stress.

These differences are not nearly as pronounced in organizations that have a strong intolerance of sexual harassment. Organizations that tend to ignore sexual harassment in the workplace are more likely to see significant differences between how male and female co-workers respond. Women also have a much broader definition of what constitutes sexual harassment. Because of this, females are more sensitive to behaviors like unwanted flirting, physical contact ("accidentally" brushing up against), and sexual "teasing."

Overall, women in the workplace are much less likely to discourage victims of sexual harassment from speaking up. At the same time, men engage in "not hearing" or "silencing" behaviors that deter victims from reporting sexual harassment. In particular, when it is a man being sexually harassed, other men are likely to "turn a blind eye" and have less sympathy than for a woman being sexually harassed.  

Men’s responses to sexual harassment are likely to be even more detached in masculine work environments. This is due to ingrained notions of masculinity and fear of being perceived as weak or less "manly." Male observers of sexual harassment may even feel empathy for the harasser, rather than the victim, leading to passive responses.

In some cases, men may be passive about witnessing sexual harassment because of fear of retribution, most especially, adverse career repercussions. Women, on the other hand, may also fear retribution, but will still speak out for the victim of sexual harassment.

Organizations Set the Tone for Workplace Sexual Harassment Responses

The organization itself plays a huge role in setting the tone and the expectation level for just how much sexual harassment will be tolerated. While it is hoped the answer to that is "none," this is not often the case. In organizations that were perceived as highly intolerant of workplace sexual harassment, both men and women exhibited higher levels of empathy for the victim, intervened more often, and were less likely to try to silence the victim.  

Why is How Co-Workers Respond to Witnessing Sexual Harassment Important?

When co-workers express belief and empathy, the victim will have fewer feelings of self-blame, shame, and isolation. Supportive co-workers empower victims to report harassment, even when they fear retaliation. A supportive environment will also help victims of sexual harassment believe their environment is basically safe, while feeling more motivated and connected to the workplace. Without co-worker support, victims of sexual harassment are more likely to experience absenteeism, disengagement, decreased job satisfaction, and even leave their jobs.

Contact a DuPage County, IL Sexual Harassment Lawyer

The best step you can take after experiencing sexual harassment is to consult with a skilled Wheaton, IL workplace sexual harassment attorney from Mirabella, Kincaid, Frederick & Mirabella, LLC. An MKFM Law attorney will always take the time to fully educate you about the legal process and then develop a tailored strategy that reflects your goals and objectives. Call 630-665-7300 to schedule your initial attorney meeting.