Employees who are not a target of sexual harassment but work where it is occurring can file what type of lawsuit?

• A. Rehabilitation claim
• B. Hostile work environment claim
• C. Wrongful termination
• D. Discrimination claim

Answer: (B)

A hostile work environment claim is about the atmosphere created by sex-based harassment in the workplace. If harassment is ongoing and pervasive, it isn’t only the direct target who suffers—the environment can become hostile for anyone working there. When unwelcome sexual conduct is frequent or severe enough to alter the terms and conditions of employment (morale, concentration, safety, ability to work), employees who aren’t the direct targets can still file this type of claim because the workplace itself is hostile due to that conduct.

This fits best because the scenario emphasizes the environment produced by harassment rather than a specific incident against you. Rehabilitation claims relate to disability and rehab services, wrongful termination addresses being fired, and while discrimination claims can cover sex-based unfair treatment, a hostile work environment claim specifically captures the harmful workplace atmosphere caused by ongoing harassment.