Sexual harassment has been revealed to be a systemic issue in workplaces in Pennsylvania and throughout America. However, some describe the issue as more of a power imbalance in the workplace as opposed to a problem with sex itself. Those who have been hit on or been asked out on dates may want to suggest that their employers create a sexual harassment training program.
Sharing personal experiences may make it easier for such a request to be granted as it creates a sense of urgency about the issue. Those who are being harassed by colleagues or other business contacts should be direct when asking for the harassing behavior to stop. In many cases, an individual may cross boundaries because they don’t think the other person will say or do anything about it. Behaviors that could constitute harassment include calls or messages to a personal cell phone or invitations to meet outside of work.
It may also be considered harassment for a manager or anyone else to ask an employee if she is considering having children. There are a variety of reasons why a woman may not want or be able to get pregnant. As starting a family is a matter of personal choice, managers or colleagues should refrain from asking about such topics in the workplace.
Workers who are subject to unwanted sexual advances or other forms of harassment may be exposed to a hostile working environment. This may be true if the harassment is severe or pervasive. Examples of sexual harassment may include being asked out on a date or being asked for a sexual favor. An attorney may be able to review a case and determine an appropriate course of action. If successful, an individual may be entitled to compensation and other relief.
