Just not worth it: a framework for the motivational dynamics of reporting workplace sexual harassment

Abstract

Workplace sexual harassment (WSH) is a prevalent psychosocial hazard that harms workers and organisations. Addressing WSH effectively requires understanding of not only when it occurs, but also the mental and emotional factors influencing decisions to report it. While research has largely focused on external barriers to reporting, such as fear of retaliation, less is known about how environmental threats become internalised–shaping perceptions of safety, support, and dignity. This gap risks interventions that overlook victims and witnesses’ struggles, perpetuating silence and undermining safety. Accordingly, our study employed a qualitative triangulation approach to identify the primary internal factors that hinder employees from reporting WSH. Drawing on the perspectives of targets and witnesses (i.e. n = 203 survey respondents, n = 7 interviews) and subject matter experts (n = 7 interviews) and using reflexive thematic analysis, we propose a framework grounded in basic psychological need fulfilment and cognitive appraisals of legitimacy, risk-reward balance, and system efficacy. These findings highlight how WSH reporting is driven by internal unmet psychological needs, underscoring the importance of approaches that restore victims’ autonomy, competence, and connection. Future research should explore how such models can reshape organisational responses and promote safer reporting climates.