Cherry Hill Sexual Harassment Lawyers Discuss the Fast Food Industry

Sexual harassment can be pervasive in certain professions or types of workplaces. Alarmingly, recent studies have shown startling statistics relating to the rate of sexual harassment in the fast food industry. Recent reports have indicated that inappropriate behavior, retaliation, discrimination, are at an epidemic level in fast food establishments.

Statistics Shed Some Light on Sexual Harassing Behaviors

A recent survey by Hart Research conducted interviewed more than 1,200 workers of non-management fast food jobs in the U.S. The study found that 40 percent of women in the industry had experienced unwanted sexual conduct in their workplace. Nearly half of those harassed reported health problems associated with stress, anxiety, and depression as a result. To make matters worse, only forty percent of victims had reported the misconduct to their employer.

Commonly-reported harassment behaviors included sexual teasing and inappropriate jokes, remarks, or questions. Outright inappropriate hugging or touching was also reported, as were unwanted, unprompted questions about sexual interests. Forced sharing of inappropriate photos was another form of harassment reported. In addition to this, accusations have been made that management has neglected to follow up on reports of sexual harassment, which results in a hostile work environment. One McDonald’s employee claimed that she had filed a report with McDonald’s corporate after an instance of harassment, but nothing came of it.

Response from the Industry Regarding Claims

One of the more common locations where incidents were reported was McDonald’s. Representatives from McDonald’s have been reported to be researching the incidents that were brought to their attention. McDonald’s corporate leaders released a statement proclaiming a commitment to respectful treatment and the fight against sexual harassment. The corporation announced that they would take any claims seriously and review all allegations made.

Cherry Hill Sexual Harassment Lawyers at Sidney L. Gold & Associates, P.C. Fight Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

It is necessary for an employer to feel safe and secure in their place of employment. If you or someone you know has been the victim of sexual harassment or discrimination in South Jersey, then the skilled and dedicated South Jersey sexual harassment lawyers at Sidney L. Gold & Associates can be the advocates you need. Complete our online form or call our offices at 215-569-1999 to set up a consultation. We serve clients throughout New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York.