Sexual harassment - meaning and definition
Alsounwanted sexual attentionsexual harrassmentharassment
Definition
Sexual harassment is unwanted behaviour of a sexual nature that violates a person's dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile or humiliating environment.
At a glance
- Unwanted behaviour of a sexual nature that violates dignity or creates a hostile environment.
- Includes comments, jokes, unwanted touching or sending sexual images.
- It happens at work, in schools, in public spaces and online.
- Many countries have laws against it, but definitions differ.
- Keeping records can help if someone decides to report.
In detail
It can include unwelcome comments about someone's body, sexual jokes, repeated requests for dates, unwanted touching, sending sexual images, or offering benefits in exchange for sexual favours. It happens in workplaces, schools, public spaces and online.
Many countries have laws against sexual harassment, especially at work and in education, and employers are often required to prevent and address it. What counts legally differs by jurisdiction. People experiencing harassment can keep records, seek support from trusted colleagues or organisations, and report it through formal channels if they choose.
In a sentence
- Our new office policy explains what counts as sexual harassment and how to report it.
- Constant comments about her body were sexual harassment, even if he called them jokes.
Where the word comes from
The phrase "sexual harassment" came into wide use in the United States in the mid-1970s, when feminist activists used it to name unwanted sexual attention at work.
Not to be confused with
- Sexual assault
Sexual assault involves unwanted sexual contact; harassment is broader and may involve no physical contact at all.
Common questions
What counts as sexual harassment?
Unwelcome sexual comments, jokes, repeated requests for dates, unwanted touching, sending sexual images and offering benefits in exchange for sexual favours are common examples. Exact legal definitions depend on the country and setting.
What can I do if I am being sexually harassed?
You can keep a record of what happened and when, save messages, talk to trusted colleagues or support organisations, and use formal reporting channels if you choose. The decision about what to do is yours.