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Sexual Harrasment in the Workplace Essay

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Sexual Harrasment in the Workplace Sexual Harassment in the workplace is something so common, but ironically pushed aside which results in serious legal matter. What is sexual harassment? Sexual harassment is a form of discrimination that violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. It also takes the form of unsolicited sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment that interferes with an individual’s work performance or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive work environment results in poor performance and lack of motivation.

Organizations should have a policy that will not cause any confusion. A clear and concise policy will prevent any …show more content…

With diversity in the work force growing so rapidly the differences in the lifestyles and personal ethics the organization cannot afford to rely on an unwritten policy. The organization must realize that complaints will be made and it should not be handled lightly. Organizations should periodically update their policies reflecting the current times and situations. It should be mandatory to implement sexual harassment polices and brief the employees of such policies.

On the other hand sexual harassment can be blown out of proportion. Some complaints that are made are not always reasonable. An extensive investigation should be done to make sure that it is legit and the complaint is not unfair. Perception from the receiver may be distorted from the actual meaning. Some ways to determine the complaint is really constituted as a complaint are:

1. See if the behavior or act is constructed to be unwelcome, offensive or intimidating.

2. Make sure that there is a trend of the same or numerous complaints being reported.

3. Confirm that there was any implied or expressed sexual favors concerning the job retention, promotion or any other issues benefiting the organization.

The best way to avoid sexual harassment in the work environment is prevention. Employers are encouraged to take necessary steps to prevent sexual harassment from

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