|
1|2|3|4
Sexual Harassment
Patterns of Sexual Harassment
Most sexual harassment is perpetrated by men against women, though there are also cases of harassment by women against men, and of same-sex harassment perpetrated by either sex. A small percentage of men in the workplace account for the majority of harassers; many of these individuals victimize several women over a period of time.
The essence of sexual harassment is abuse of one’s power or authority, thought the perpetrator might try to convince the victim and him/herself that the behavior is about sexual or romantic interest.
In addition to targeting individuals who have less power within an organization or institution, perpetrators of sexual harassment may choose their victims based on such characteristics as age, perceived passivity or lack of assertiveness, low self-esteem, and other areas of vulnerability that might make it difficult for the victim to protect her- or himself. However, it does not follow that individuals with these characteristics cause the harassment or deserve to be harassed.
Perpetrators of sexual harassment often dismiss or show a lack or regard for the feelings of their victims, even when assertive attempts are made to put an end to the inappropriate behavior. This can be confusing for the victims, and might make her/him feel as if there is no basis for complaining about the harassment.
When confronted about their inappropriate behavior, perpetrators of sexual harassment often act as if they are being victimized. This type of manipulation can make the victim feel guilty about trying to set limits or bringing a complaint against the harasser.
Perpetrators of sexual harassment often test out new victims with minor violations of work, social and interpersonal boundaries. For example they might:
- Tell sexual jokes, display sexual/erotic materials, make comments about one’s body or clothing, or ask questions about one’s sex life
- Violate one’s personal space by apparently nonsexual touching or standing too close
Try to tell the potential victim how to run her/his personal or professional life under the guise of providing “guidance”
- Talk about his/her own personal concerns or relationships, including martial or sexual problems
- Make requests or demands that the potential victim meet him/her outside of normal work hours or the designated workplace
|
