Reports of Sexual Harassment Increased Between 2018 and 2024, US Study Finds

Sexual harassment can have long-lasting effects on emotional and psychological wellbeing. People who experience harassment may develop anxiety, depression, sleep difficulties, reduced confidence and symptoms associated with trauma.

Researchers compared findings from the 2018 and 2024 #MeToo National Surveys to examine changes in reported experiences of sexual harassment among adults in the United States.

The proportion of adults reporting past-year sexual harassment increased from 10.7% in 2018 to 24.3% in 2024. Among women, reported experiences increased from 14.3% to 31.8%. Among men, the figure increased from 6.7% to 15.2%.

The researchers cautioned that the increase does not necessarily demonstrate that the actual number of incidents rose by the same amount. Greater public awareness, changes in how people understand harassment and increased willingness to disclose experiences may have influenced the results.

The findings highlight the importance of safe reporting systems, access to psychological support and workplace policies that prevent harassment and protect affected individuals.

The study is relevant to mental health because harassment can affect emotional safety, relationships, workplace participation and long-term psychological wellbeing.