The Real Definition of Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment can occur in a physical, verbal, and non-verbal manner. Harassment is when someone disrespects another with inappropriate behavior. This behavior can include many things such as touching, looking, or speaking inappropriately. When harassment turns sexual or the behavior is geared towards sex, it is then recognized as sexual harassment.

Many times the boundaries governing sexual harassment are gray and unclear. This is perhaps why it is difficult for people to understand what constitutes appropriate behavior. Many times victims keep their feelings in until they get so anxious they blow up or demonstrate behavior that is out of the ordinary.

In a case where harassment of any kind is occurring, the victim often feels uncomfortable. They rarely welcome this type of behavior onto themselves. This is what makes it so horrible. Sexual harassment often becomes so bad that it affects a victim's ability to function. The sexual harasser may have taken a liking to the victim's physical appearance or something they may be wearing.

In other instances where sexual harassment takes place, a victim is being targeted because of their sex or social status. If a boss or superior feels like the victim is at their disposal, they may say inappropriate things to them.

Harassment can happen to both men and women. A certain sex may feel as if they are superior to another. For example, a man may feel he is above a woman, and therefore, can speak, touch, or look at her in any way he likes.

Sexual harassment is an issue because it lacks consideration for the victim. Many times a person may not realize they are harassing an individual, but once the victim feels uncomfortable, they can call it harassment. Jokers are often subjected to these types of allegations when they crack jokes that demonstrate subtle versions of sexual harassment. Harassment can affect work environments and create personal relationships that are negative and intense.

Victims of harassment can experience serious psychological trauma. Sometimes after a victim speaks out they may still receive negative and harassing comments from the culprit or those around them.

Sexual harassment victims can experience serious health problems, including; headaches, anxiety, disorders regarding eating and identity, stomach problems, and much more. Some doctors have equated the effects of rape with victims of harassment. Words and gestures can have a huge effect on a person’s psyche, not to mention their body. Sexual harassment is a type of behavior that is looked down upon in society, and those guilty of it can be punished under the law.

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