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Hostile work environments occur only at lower levels of an organization.

A. True
B. False

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Final answer:

Hostile work environments can occur at any level within an organization, with potential for both lower and upper-level individuals to be involved. Organizational change toward flatter structures and the importance of teamwork highlight the need for addressing such issues at all company levels.

Step-by-step explanation:

False. Hostile work environments can occur at any level of an organization, not only at lower levels. A hostile work environment is defined by unwelcome conduct that is based on race, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information that is severe or pervasive enough to create a work environment that a reasonable person would consider intimidating, hostile, or abusive. The legality of the behavior aside, it also detracts from employees' job performance and can foster a toxic workplace.

It is a common misconception that a hostile work environment is an issue pertaining exclusively to the lower echelons of a company's structure. However, anyone in the organization can create or contribute to a hostile work environment, including management and executives. With the shift toward flatter organizational structures and increased emphasis on teamwork, it's just as likely for a director to experience it from below as it is for an entry-level employee from above. Employers have a responsibility to prevent and address harassment at every level.

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