What should a victim of harassment do first?

The correct course of action for a victim of harassment is to make it clear that the conduct is unacceptable. Communicating directly to the harasser that their behavior is unwelcome can serve as a crucial first step in addressing the situation. It allows the victim to assert their boundaries and may discourage the harasser from continuing their actions.

This proactive approach can also establish a record of the victim's response to the harassment, which may be important if the situation escalates or needs to be reported to authorities or organizations later on. By clearly stating that the behavior is unacceptable, the victim empowers themselves and takes control in a difficult situation.

In contrast, seeking legal counsel or reporting to the police may be more appropriate steps after an initial attempt to address the behavior directly. Ignoring the behavior is not advisable, as it may enable the harasser to continue without consequence, potentially worsening the situation.