SEXUAL HARASSMENT

Meaning of sexual harassment

There are many type of conduct and behavior which can constitute sexual harassment. The scope of the definition of sexual harassment is very wide. The main criteria are that the victim must suffer harassment or embarrassment from the harasser. And such action from the harasser is not welcome by the victim.

A woman or young girl who has been subjected to this type of harassment is usually an employee of the harasser. The weak and powerless are always subjected to bullying by the strong and powerful. If a girl happens to be good looking and sexy she may be the subject of her superior’s attention.

Gestures alone can amount to sexual harassment. It is not necessary that there must have been physical contact between the victim and the offender. Language from the offender which are very annoying and embarrassing can constitute sexual harassment. It is perpetuated because the employee does not have the courage to take up action or to fight back. The threat of loss of employment is also a reason for victim’s continued silence.