When it comes to sexual harassment cases, it is important to consider power dynamics. These can drastically influence how a workplace sexual harassment case begins and why it takes place.
Often, researchers find that differences in relative power within the corporation make sexual harassment possible. A supervisor may be accused of harassing employees who report to them. They may have done this as a demonstration of their own power and standing within the company.
They may also have used that position to treat the employees unfairly. Quid pro quo sexual harassment is when an employee is offered something in exchange for what the harasser want, for instance. Perhaps they were up for a promotion and their supervisor told them that they would give them the promotion in exchange for a sexual relationship.
Sexual harassment targeting those in power
It’s important to note is that it is not always those who are lower in the power hierarchy who are targeted for sexual harassment. In some cases, it can be a position of power itself that leads to this behavior.
Some researchers have observed sexual harassment being used against women who are in leadership roles, for instance. They note that “sexual harassment can serve as an ‘equalizer’ against women in power, motivated more by control and domination than by sexual desire.” In this sense, the power dynamics are still leading to harassment as people grapple for control within the business structure.
What are your legal options?
Sexual harassment is illegal and a violation of an employee’s rights. It’s crucial for those who have suffered harassment on the job to know what legal steps are available to them.