Nikki is speaking with a coworker. Nikki is speaking with David.

Case Study One

Out of Touch

Well, it turns out that Nikki did not have any issue with David’s conduct. In fact, when asked by another coworker if she was okay, she explained that there is no cause for concern, and they joke around like that all the time.

How would you classify Nikki’s response to David’s conduct?

The correct answer is unacceptable

You could make an argument that this is a gray area because Nikki does not have any issue with David’s conduct. Yet, even though David’s conduct was not directly offensive to her, it may have been offensive to others who witnessed it. Nikki may choose not to report the incident, but that does not make the conduct appropriate for the workplace. The best option is to never touch anyone inappropriately and to keep this type of conduct out of the workplace.

Here’s another situation that may arise at work.