The Fundamentals of Sexual Harassment

The Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was created in order to protect employees from morally wrong actions of other people within the company. Moreover, to prevent the development of a hostile work environment is one of its foremost objectives.

How to Identify Sexual Harassment

It is never easy to identify conducts of sexual harassment. There are times wherein the person only overreacts upon the not deliberate demeanor of another person. On the other hand, the harasser may deny the allegation saying that his or her action was not intentional, where in fact, it is.

Every member of a particular workplace must comprehend that sexual harassment can create a hostile work environment. Regardless of its extent, the harassed is the victim and it can impede on his or her performance.

Sexual harassment is a painful event in the workplace. It is defined as the offensive sexual language, unwelcomed sexual advances, and other physical and verbal actions of a sexual nature.

Meanwhile, the following are the important points to consider in relation to sexual harassment, the harasser, and the harassed.

• Anyone can be the harasser (boss, manager, supervisor,  employee, non-employee)
• Gender is not much of an issue since both sexes can be the victim, and so are same sexes.
• The conduct of sexual harassment is not always lucid. Thus, the victim must be careful enough in claiming that he or she has received such act.
• Keep in mind that not all rude, offensive, or repulsive behavior in the workplace is illegal harassment. It has to have appropriate basis and concrete evidence in order to consider the compliant as valid, at all times.
• Sexual harassment must not be encouraged or tolerated in any employment site.

Do the First Step

You must do what needs to be done especially if you consider yourself a victim of sexual harassment. You have to speak out before the harasser aggravates the situation. Bear in mind that when you do not reach out, the harasser may think that what he or she does is fine with you.

First, speak with the harasser in a subtle and calm manner. Let the person know that you do not like the conduct and that you do not want it to continue for quite some time. Be firm when you are conversing. Do not