Crisis and problem situations

6. Harassment and inappropriate behaviour

You can read more detailed instructions on how to take action against harassment and inappropriate behaviour in HYY’s Equality Guide for Organisations.

1. If you see or hear harassment or inappropriate behaviour, try to put a stop to the situation. You can, for instance, join the conversation or question any inappropriate comments. It is not always entirely clear whether what is happening constitutes harassment or bullying. If you are unsure about it, just join the conversation and ask whether everything is okay.
 
2. Support and listen to the person who has experienced harassment. Ask them what kind of help they need and how they would like you to act in the situation. We recommend taking the person to the side so that you can discuss matters privately. Sometimes, the person does not want to start resolving the situation immediately, or this is not advisable due to them being upset or intoxicated, for instance. Make sure that the person is not left alone. Set up a time for continuing the discussion.
 
3. Once you know how the person who has experienced harassment wants you to act, try to follow their wishes.

4. Discuss the incident with the person accused of harassment, too. Remain as calm and neutral as possible and take the person to the side. The person in question does not necessarily realise that they have done something wrong. Give them constructive feedback and explain how their behaviour can be interpreted as wrong or harmful or how it has distressed another person. Stress that the other person’s subjective experience is genuine even if the person meant no harm. Offer advice on how the person could improve their behaviour.

5. Know your own limits. Conflict and harassment situations put a strain on the people resolving them, too. Make sure that you do not take on too much responsibility by directing people towards other providers of help, too. You do not need to suddenly become a health care or crisis situation professional. Most common contact information for crisis situations are available here.