Sexual Harassment

The Law

In formal literature, sexual harassment is described as unwanted sexual relations imposed by a superior on subordinates at work. Originating in law as a form of sex discrimination in the workplace, sexual harassment has many turns and twists. Even though it became a part of the Civil Rights Act in 1964, it is still an unlocked discussion and quite open to interpretation. The legal issues have arisen from sexual assaults of household workers to lewd comments by a co-worker. In the grand scheme, anything is a possibility.

After the Civil Rights Act, the concept evolved greatly from the variety of court cases and Supreme Court rulings. In current times, sexual harassment has moved out of just a standard workplace issue into to any situation where unwanted sexual conduct may occur. Sexual harassment becomes a major legal issue when sexual situations are used as a form of dominance and control.

Dating in the Workplace

Due to the legal issues surrounding romantic relationships in the workplace, most experts argue that one should completely avoid on-the-job dating. At the very least, anyone interested in a fellow co-worker should practice extreme caution. Although most cases involve a man as the initiator of harassment, it can work in other ways. Women in positions of power can be the harasser, as well as in same-sex relationships. In many cases, sexual proposals or invitations to date are not intended to be sexual harassment, but are honest attraction. Even though, this sort of situation in a work environment is potentially risky.

Sexual harassment can also be indirect in nature and still be illegal. For example, the couple who continues to stroke each other during business meetings may make other employees uncomfortable, even though they are not the direct target of harassment. There have even been cases of viewing inappropriate material on computers causing fellow employees to call foul.

Before asking another employee out on a date, it is important to consider the following:

• How sure are you he or she feels the same about you?
• Are you in a position of power over him or her, even indirectly?
• How important is your job? Would you risk it over a relationship?
• Is there any formal company policy on interoffice romance?

When entering into an office romance, whether you are male or female, it is important to pay close attention to your partner. Listening to the words they say and responding appropriately will help to avoid any relationship confusion. In turn, make sure you are clear in your own communication. If your boss asks you out and you don’t want to go, make it a clear “no.” The law is on your side if you turn them down and they take it out on you. If you are ever seriously confronted with harassment at work, make a formal complaint. This will ensure proof in court if anything ever gets dirty down the road.

Other Sexual Harassment Concerns

Although the legal issue surrounding harassment is mostly a concern in the workplace, it can occur anywhere. As a source of unending controversy, it is important to keep the possibility in your mind at all times while dating.

Expectations

Relationships can change quickly and unexpectedly. In many cases an institutional romance will start off with passion and then turn ugly. Unfortunately in this situation, a claim of harassment can often occur. Either valid or vindictive, and even if you are found not guilty, a lawsuit is costly.

Cultural and Societal Differences

Whether you have a diverse workplace or church group, different cultures handle sexual advances different. Often in Hispanic culture, hugs and other casual touching is common among acquaintances and not a sexual advance. In turn, seniors come from a different time and may have different expectations for sexually related language. Ultimately, it is important to appreciate the differences in one another and respect others’ space and comfort levels.

Gender Roles

Sex discrimination is the root of the legality of sexual harassment. Therefore, changing gender roles greatly influence the outcomes of behavior between men and women. Harassment is often a question of sexual equality.

Hot Topic

No matter how you look at it, sexual harassment is a hot topic today. Throw these words around and you will get instant attention. While it can often make it hard to develop relationships with those that are easiest to meet, ultimately the concept should make our workplaces more comfortable for all.