Delaware Cosmetology and Barbering Practice Exam

What is considered a hostile work environment?

1. A workplace with a high employee turnover rate

2. A workplace with severe or pervasive harassment that creates an intimidating or abusive atmosphere

3. A workplace with strict dress codes

4. A workplace with limited break times

The correct answer is: A workplace with severe or pervasive harassment that creates an intimidating or abusive atmosphere

A hostile work environment is defined as a workplace characterized by severe or pervasive harassment that creates an intimidating, hostile, or abusive atmosphere for employees. This can include actions such as bullying, discriminatory remarks, offensive jokes, or any behavior that significantly disrupts an employee’s ability to perform their job. The key factor is that the harassment must be severe enough to create a work situation that a reasonable person would find intimidating or abusive. High employee turnover rate, strict dress codes, and limited break times do not inherently create a hostile environment. While these factors may contribute to employee dissatisfaction, they do not necessarily involve harassment or intimidation. Hence, the identification of an environment as hostile relies on the presence of harassment that affects the workplace atmosphere and employee comfort.