Challenges Encountered by Working Women: Gender-Based Harassment and Mental Health in Media and Other Industries

Abstract

This research examines the widespread issue of gender-based harassment and bias against working women and their harmful effects on mental health in the media and other industries. Despite advances in gender equality worldwide, women in public and professional roles continue to face significant challenges such as stress, anxiety, and depression caused by deeply rooted patriarchal institutions, socio-cultural values, and limited organizational support. A systematic review of literature from national and international media reports, peer-reviewed studies, organizational research, and policy documents, this study identifies key gaps in understanding the experiences women face regarding gender-based harassment, equal employment opportunities, and the absence of harassment policies in organizations. These issues contribute to psychological problems like anxiety, stress, and depression among women and marginalized groups. As a result, many women stop working in the media due to persistent harassment, and they do not report these problems because of a lack of legal support and lack of literacy. The research highlights that workplace harassment, which is often underreported because of fear of social stigma and weak enforcement, fosters a hostile work environment. Societal stereotypes exacerbate these problems, hindering career progress and causing psychological stress for working women. The study emphasizes the critical gap for stronger protections, better enforcement of anti-harassment laws, and shifts in societal attitudes to create safe, fair, and supportive work conditions for women. Overall, this study contributes valuable insights to the literature on women’s harassment in the media industry.