Which of the following is a characteristic of workplace harassment?

Workplace harassment is defined by behavior that creates a hostile or intimidating environment, often based on personal characteristics such as race, gender, sexual orientation, or disability. The correct answer highlights that harassment typically involves repeated offensive behavior, which distinguishes it from isolated incidents or benign interactions.

Repeated offensive behavior signifies a pattern that can have a lasting impact on the victim's mental and emotional well-being, contributing to a toxic workplace atmosphere. This kind of behavior can manifest in various forms, including bullying, derogatory remarks, or discriminatory actions, all targeting a specific individual due to their inherent traits.

Other options provided suggest behaviors that do not align with the definition of harassment. Infrequent compliments may indicate positive reinforcement rather than negative behavior, a single negative comment lacks the sustained and pervasive nature of harassment, and a supportive work environment suggests an atmosphere free from hostility or discrimination, directly contrasting with the essence of harassment. Thus, the repeated nature of offensive behavior based on personal characteristics is what makes the correct answer stand out as a defining feature of workplace harassment.