True or False: Hostile work environments only occur at lower levels of an organization.

A hostile work environment can occur at any level of an organization, not just at the lower levels. This concept is rooted in the understanding that hostility can arise from various sources, including supervisors, peers, and the organizational culture itself, regardless of hierarchical position. Factors contributing to hostility can include harassment, discrimination, or bullying, which are not confined to specific levels of employment.

Moreover, hostile work environments can manifest in a variety of workplace settings, including small businesses and large corporations alike. Each industry may have its own cultural nuances, but the potential for a hostile environment transcends industry boundaries. Thus, it is inaccurate to assert that such conditions are limited to lower levels or constrained by company size or type. The presence and experience of a hostile work environment depend more on individual behaviors and systemic issues within the organization rather than on the hierarchy or size of the company.