Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment in the workplace is defined as unwanted, unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature. This can include physical, verbal or non-verbal behaviour that can take place between colleagues or superiors and subordinates.

It can be directed at a specific individual or involve more general behaviour that creates a degrading and intimidating work environment.

Sexual harassment can vary in severity and should be viewed along a continuum – from leers, sexist remarks, harassing emails or text messages, and touching, to sexual assault and rape. Sexual harassment can occur in a variety of circumstances. The victim does not have to be of the opposite sex and the harasser may be of either gender.

Harassers can include employers, colleagues, clients and customers. The victim does not have to be the person harassed but could be anyone affected by the offensive conduct. Unlawful sexual harassment may occur without economic injury to or discharge of the victim. The harasser’s conduct must be unwelcome.

Sexual harassment can be very disruptive, not only to the individuals but also to their families, colleagues, and companies. Those that experience sexual harassment often suffer from shame and guilt. They often leave their jobs, affecting their professional development and their families’ income. Family members typically feel frustrated and angry because they cannot protect the victim. Colleagues may also face sexual harassment. Ultimately, the company suffers from decreased productivity and turnover.

In 2007 and 2008, AWARE conducted a survey of sexual harassment at the workplace. We also gathered information about companies’ sexual harassment practices and policies, and recommendations on legal recourse for victims of workplace sexual harassment.

The survey findings:

• More than 50% of respondents said they had experienced some form of sexual harassment at their workplace
• 1 in 4 knew of people who had experienced some form of sexual harassment
• Of those who experienced sexual harassment, 34% of women respondents and 19.2% of men respondents reported being harassed several times.

A copy of the survey report may be purchased from the AWARE Centre for $15.

The AWARE Training Institute is developing a series of workshops to offer to corporations to help them prevent and manage sexual harassment at the workplace.