The term of harassment applies in law to a set type of behavior. It is defined as the actions of a single person or a group that once executed will adversely affect the safety, security or privacy of another individual. Actions include stalking, threatening letters or phone calls, derisive e-mails and other forms of communication. It is not needed to prove intent, but the perpetrator must have a reasonable belief that his, her or their actions will result in the negative emotional or psychological effects. Types of harassment include psychological, bullying, sexual, workplace, racial, religious, police, disability and sexual orientation. Depending upon the severity of the offense, harassment in these instances will be either a gross misdemeanor or a felony. The classification depends upon the severity of the crime as well as the frequency of the actions and the prior record of the perpetrator. In many instances, the civil result is a restraining order. It is much harder to institute criminal proceedings.