While women are more likely to face harassment in the workplace, a new study shows men are more likely to face discrimination when it comes to their careers after they turn 40. The study shows more men believe their age has kept them from finding work or advancing in their current job.
Half of the men surveyed said they had witnessed age discrimination in the workplace compared to 38% of the women who took part in insurer Hiscox’s 2019 Ageism in the Workplace Study. The study's findings are significant as by 2024, workers 55 and older will represent a quarter of the nation’s workforce.
Survey shines a light on age discrimination
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) reports the number of age-related discrimination charges against employers more than doubled from 1990 to 2017 for workers age 65 and older. Some of the studies other significant findings include:
- 44% said they knew someone at their workplace who was discriminated against due to their age
- 36% of all workers believe their age prevented them from getting a job after turning 40
- 26% are worried they could lose their current job because of their age
- 21% said they were a victim of age discrimination
Discrimination remains largely unreported
While age discrimination claims have risen, the study says a majority of cases go unreported. Only 40% who said they experienced ageism filed a complaint. Of those who did complain, the majority filed charges only with their employer and not with a state or local agency, or the EEOC. Likewise, 51% of those who witnessed age discrimination said they did not report it to their employer.
Seek legal advice if you are the victim of ageism
Despite laws prohibiting age discrimination, many victims fear retaliation from their employer, or worry that a complaint will create a hostile work environment, while others aren’t aware of their rights. If you have been the target of discrimination due to your age, an experienced employment attorney here in Broward County will protect your rights and work to get you the compensation you deserve.