Sexual harassment often isn’t about sex

On Behalf of | Feb 2, 2023 | Sexual Harassment |

It’s easy to assume that sexual harassment in the workplace is usually about sex. And there are certainly cases in which it is, such as when one coworker wants to date another and will not stop asking them to go on a date. The first time is not harassment, but the persistence certainly could be.

However, in many cases, sexual harassment on the job has very little to do with any attraction or sexual desire from either person. It is actually more about power than anything else. Let’s take a quick look at two ways that this can impact a case.

A demonstration of power

First and foremost, the person who is committing the harassment may simply be trying to emphasize their power over the other person. As some experts put it: “It’s about the objectification of a victim, emphasizing their role as a helpless subordinate.”

Power structures are very important in the corporate world, and they can often be tied to someone’s career or how well they do climbing the corporate ladder. Some people will see sexual harassment simply as a way to put themselves ahead or to get what they want. They know that it makes others perceive them as a powerful individual in the workplace, and they think that that helps their standing.

The use of power

Additionally, someone who knows they have power over someone else may simply decide to use that to get something that they want. This sometimes happens in quid pro quo situations, where someone will promise rewards – like a promotion – in exchange for sexual favors. No one in the situation wants a long-term relationship, but the person who has the power due to their rank within the business knows that they can use that power to get what that they want.

If you have experienced any of this on the job, it’s very important for you to understand all of your legal rights. Employees do not deserve to be treated like this for any reason.

FindLaw Network
Photo of Jefferson County Judicial Center