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Ways that gender discrimination could impact you

On Behalf of | Jun 29, 2022 | Employment Law

When you go to work, you should not experience unfair or unreasonable treatment from your employers, supervisors, co-workers or others you may encounter. If you are a female employee, you know that you may experience discrimination on the basis of your gender. This is something that could lead to the development of a hostile work environment and take a toll on your career. Gender discrimination can also impact your health, mental stability and income. 

There are many ways that discriminatory behavior can take place where you work. It may be helpful for you to learn to recognize discrimination and know what you can do to combat this type of treatment. You could be a victim even without realizing it, and you have the right to speak out and seek an end to this unacceptable treatment in the workplace. 

Types of gender discrimination 

Gender discrimination is not always sexual in nature, but women are disproportionately more likely to be victims of sexual harassment in the workplace. This can include aggressive comments of a sexual nature, unwanted physical contact, threats, bribes promising benefits in exchange for sexual favors and more. Other common ways that gender discrimination could take place where you work include the following: 

  • Representation — Leadership in your company may be predominantly male, and you may not receive deserved promotions or be placed in leadership roles because of your gender. 
  • Pay — Statistics indicate that women often make less than their male counterparts, even if they are doing the same jobs or have seniority over their male co-workers. 
  • Pregnancy — If you are pregnant, you may have experienced difficultly regarding equal treatment from your employer, reasonable accommodations or job security as a result of your current condition. 

If you believe that you are a victim of discrimination, you do not have to remain silent. You may have grounds for recourse through both your company’s human resources department, as well as the West Virginia civil justice system. 

Know your rights and options 

It will be beneficial for you to know your rights and options as a victim of gender discrimination. Female employees are often unsure if what they are experiencing qualifies as discriminatory treatment or if it is simply an inconvenience. If you are not certain, it may be helpful to first seek an assessment of your case, the documentation you have and other factors to determine if you have a valid legal claim. 

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