How can harassment impact a team?

Harassment can significantly affect a team by potentially leading to increased levels of stress, anxiety, and discomfort among team members. When individuals experience harassment, it creates a toxic atmosphere that can erode trust and collaboration within the team. This deterioration in the environment can lead to a decline in morale, as team members may feel unsafe or devalued.

Furthermore, incidents of harassment can escalate beyond interpersonal issues and result in legal consequences for the organization or individuals involved. Lawsuits stemming from harassment claims not only impact the individuals directly involved but can also create a climate of fear or resentment within the broader team, leading to an overall decrease in productivity and cohesion.

In contrast, the other options presented imply positive outcomes from harassment, which contradicts the well-documented negative effects that such behavior has on workplace dynamics and team effectiveness.