Discussion 3: Sexual Harassment
The two legal “tests” that constitute sexual harassment are:
Quid pro quo, meaning failure to give in to unwanted sexual advances will threaten a person’s academic or employment career.
Behavior, which a “reasonable person” would deem a “hostile or offensive working environment.”
Some men complain that because the second point is too vague and potentially too broad, they fear being falsely accused of sexual harassment. They also say they worry that simply smiling and indulging in a little friendly flirting with a female co-worker can be misconstrued. Some women also acknowledge that they miss some of the playful camaraderie. Some men have voiced their concern that the second point is both too ambiguous and potentially opens the door to too many interpretations, putting them at risk of being wrongly accused of sexual harassment. They also indicate that they are concerned that something as innocent as smiling or engaging in some lighthearted banter with a female coworker could be taken the wrong way. There are also some ladies who admit that they miss the fun camaraderie that they once had.
Why is it important to have sexual harassment laws? If you do not believe these laws or necessary, explain your position.
Do you think sexual harassment regulations have gone too far? Take a position—yes or no—and discuss it.
How would you distinguish playful flirting from sexual harassment? Provide at least two scenarios that illustrate the difference.
Write your initial response to each part in 3–4 paragraphs. Support your arguments with research, applying APA standards to citation of sources.
