Sexual harrassment

Sexual harassment is “unwelcomed sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature” (Vandeever). Any conduct of a sexual nature that makes an employee uncomfortable has the potential to be sexual harassment. The book defines sexual harassment as one of the more sensitive subjects in today’s organizational environment. “The law stipulates sexual harassment as: Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.” Sexual harassment can be male or female. However in most case scenario’s, it tends to be males sexually harassing a female. On Americanbarassocaition.org, they give us several descriptions of what can be considered sexual harassment. The website states that sexual Harassment can be any of the following; “Unwelcomed sexual conduct creating a hostile work environment, Requests for sexual favors, Sexual advances or propositions , Sexually explicit gestures like discomforting stares (sexual stares), Sexual hints/suggestions, Leaning over and invading a person’s space. Or even a deliberate physical contact, to which the individual has not consented or had the opportunity to object to” (Shickman). Sexual harassment in the workplace can be prevented and mended, here are our solutions. The first article "How to Handle Discrimination and Harassment Complaints", from online Legal Encyclopedia NOLO, outlines several ways to deal with harassment and its consequences. The article opens by stating that management must keep an open mind in these types of situations and treat the complainers with respect and compassion. Most employers greet harassment claims with skepticism upfront, since false reports have resulted in a lack of trust in employees; but, doing so makes true victims of harassment feel helpless. To combat this, the company must refrain from being close-minded and must treat harassment victims with kindness. At the same time, employers must educate

Cited: Vandeveer, Rodney C., and Michael L. Menefee. "Page 286." Human Behavior in Organizations. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall, 2006