There are generally considered to be four main types of discrimination in employment.
While the specific legal definitions and categorizations can vary by jurisdiction, the following four are commonly recognized:
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Direct Discrimination: This occurs when an employer treats an employee or job applicant less favorably than others based on a protected characteristic.
- Example: Refusing to hire someone because of their race or gender.
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Indirect Discrimination: This happens when a policy or practice appears neutral but disadvantages a group of people who share a protected characteristic.
- Example: Requiring all employees to work on Sundays, which may disadvantage those whose religion observes that day as a day of rest.
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Harassment: This involves unwanted conduct related to a protected characteristic that creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating, or offensive environment.
- Example: Making offensive jokes or comments about a person's sexual orientation.
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Victimisation: This occurs when an employee is treated unfairly because they have made a complaint of discrimination or have supported someone else's complaint.
- Example: Disciplining an employee for reporting an instance of racial discrimination in the workplace.
It's important to note that "protected characteristics" vary based on local, state, and federal laws. Common examples include race, gender, religion, age, disability, and sexual orientation. Understanding these different types of discrimination can help create a fairer and more equitable work environment.
