What constitutes harassment?

Legal definitions
  • "Quid pro quo" harassment - something sexual expected in exchange for employment or some reward.
  • Hostile environment harassment - threat of physical or emotional harm constitutes the attack or threat.

Black's Law Dictionary (1990)

Working definitions
  • "Unwanted, unwelcomed sexual behavior which interferes with your right to get an education or participate in school activities."
  • May result from words or conduct that offend, stigmatize, demean, frighten, or threaten because of one's gender.

From Flirting or Hurting  (1994)

 

Agreement between target and perpetrator is not needed for sexual harassment to occur.  Repetition of behaviors or language are not necessary for them to be considered harassment.

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