For women working in the male-dominated fields of banking and finance, the threat of moral harassment looms large. Also known as psychological or emotional abuse, this form of mistreatment can take many pernicious forms – from constant criticism and belittlement to exclusion from important meetings and decisions.
Women in these industries often find themselves subjected to a steady stream of unfair work assignments, microaggressions, and a generally hostile work environment. This type of harassment can be incredibly damaging, wearing down a person’s self-esteem and career aspirations over time.
“It’s a death by a thousand cuts,” explains Jane Doe, a vice president at a major investment bank. “The constant put-downs, the way my ideas are ignored in meetings, the high-pressure projects I’m saddled with while my male peers coast – it really takes a toll. I used to be so confident and ambitious, but now I find myself constantly second-guessing myself.”
Experts say this dynamic is all too common. Women in finance often find themselves subjected to a culture of casual misogyny, where their competence is constantly undermined and their contributions devalued. Simple things like being interrupted or having their work credited to male colleagues can chip away at their sense of professional worth.
“Moral harassment is an insidious problem because it’s often so subtle and difficult to pin down,” says Dr. Emma Rodriguez, a professor of organizational psychology. “Targets can be left questioning their own perception of events, wondering if they’re just being ‘too sensitive’. But the mental health impact is very real.”
Indeed, studies have shown that exposure to moral harassment can lead to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and even PTSD among affected employees.
Moral Harassment: The Insidious Threat to Women’s Careers in Banking and Finance.
