Bystander Effect: Workplace Harassment of Women at Educational Institutes: A Case Study of the University of Okara

Abstract

The statistics of working women being harassed are rising by the day, but reporting these harassment cases remains a societal taboo even in 2024. This study, in particular, seeks to understand why workplace harassment is not reported, as well as the elements that contribute to a victim becoming a bystander. The study investigated the subject at educational institutions. For the purpose of sampling, a public sector university, the University of Okara, was selected. In-depth interviews of the female faculty members at different departments of the university were conducted with their consent and confidentiality as a priority. A comprehensive literature review was conducted prior to the design of this research study to determine the sensitivity of the subject. This paper has explained different forms of harassment one can face, as well as the Protection Against Women at Workplace Act 2010. This paper examined both the legal framework and popular perceptions about it. A well-structured questionnaire was created to conduct the interviews. The data collected was then analyzed using descriptive and inferential research methodologies.