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Sexual Harassment
Why Victims Might be Hesitant to Report Sexual Harassment
- They do not know what sexual harassment is or what their rights are.
- They fear for their personal safety.
- They fear they might lose their job.
- In a classroom setting, they fear that their grade will be hurt.
- They do not want to get the person who is doing the harassment in trouble.
- They are concerned that nothing will be done if they complain.
- They fear criticism from co-workers who may condone or ignore the harassing behavior.
- They fear they will not be believed.
- They fear they will receive unwanted public exposure.
- They fear they may have done something to invite it.
- They are unsure or unaware of complaint procedures.
- They may be from different cultures and practice different traditions
If You Think You Are Being Harassed
Though some offensive comments or gestures might be unintentional, this does not mean that you have to tolerate them. You have a right to tell the offender to stop, and you do not have to explain or justify yourself.
Though some organizations or work environments might seem to tolerate sexual harassment, the law is on the victim’s side. Universities and places of employment have a legal responsibility to protect individuals from sexual harassment.
If you feel harassed or uncomfortable with the way someone is relating to you, trust your instincts. Tell the person that their behavior is making you uncomfortable, and that you want it to stop. If you do not feel able to do this, or if the harasser disregards your message, seek help ASAP.
Why Victims Might be Hesitant to Report Sexual Harassment
- They do not know what sexual harassment is or what their rights are.
- They fear for their personal safety.
- They fear they might lose their job.
- In a classroom setting, they fear that their grade will be hurt.
- They do not want to get the person who is doing the harassment in trouble.
- They are concerned that nothing will be done if they complain.
- They fear criticism from co-workers who may condone or ignore the harassing behavior.
- They fear they will not be believed.
- They fear they will receive unwanted public exposure.
- They fear they may have done something to invite it.
- They are unsure or unaware of complaint procedures.
- They may be from different cultures and practice different traditions
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