Which of the following actions can be considered retaliation following a harassment complaint?

Retaliation refers to any adverse action taken against an individual for exercising their rights, such as filing a harassment complaint. In this context, demotion of the complainant is a clear example of retaliation. If an employee files a harassment complaint and subsequently experiences a decrease in their job title, salary, or responsibilities, this can create a chilling effect, discouraging not only them but also others from speaking out against harassment.

Retaliatory actions can be both overt and subtle, but demotion is a direct negative consequence of complaining about harassment. It can severely impact the complainant's career growth, professional reputation, and overall job satisfaction. This is why it stands out as a quintessential example of retaliation in the workplace, highlighting the importance of maintaining a safe and supportive environment for employees to report misconduct without fear of negative repercussions.

In contrast, actions like promotion, increased responsibilities, or offering training opportunities would typically not be viewed as retaliatory. Rather, they would be seen as positive career developments that encourage growth and support for an employee, reinforcing a healthy workplace culture.