What are Types of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace?

What are Types of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace?

There are two types of sexual harassment. The first, called quid pro quo sexual harassment, is where an employer conditions employment on unwelcome sexual advances, sexual favors or other physical or verbal sexual contact, i.e. promotions or a job conditioned on intimate relations with your employer.

The other form of sexual harassment is known as hostile work environment, and it is likewise illegal. A hostile work environment includes exposure to unwanted sexual advances, physical contact, sexual remarks, sexual photographs or other types of intimidating, hostile or offensive work environments. To prove sexual harassment based on a hostile work environment, a pattern of sexual harassment must be established. This means that an isolated incident of sexual harassment may not be enough for a harassment claim, unless it is a very severe incident.

Who Gets Sexually Harassed at Work?

Sexual harassment in the workplace does not only apply to women. Men, and, so far, in very limited circumstances, gays, lesbians, and other sexual orientations may also be protected by sexual harassment laws. Sexual harassment is illegal under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and applies whether the person being harassed is a man or a woman or even if both the harasser and victim are of the same sex.

What to Do to Stop Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

If you are a victim of sexual harassment in the workplace, contact a Los Angeles sexual harassment lawyer at our employment law firm today to set up a free and confidential consultation. We help victims of sexual harassment at work and know your rights under sexual harassment laws. Learn what to do after sexual harassment at work with our free guide.