NCJ Number
134965
Journal
Society Volume: 28 Issue: 4 Dated: (May/June 1991) Pages: 4-44
Date Published
1991
Length
41 pages
Annotation
Six articles examine the parameters of sexual harassment and the dangers of overly broad proscriptions on speech and behavior that unduly repress freedom of expression and social interaction.
Abstract
The first article argues for legal redress for persons who suffer egregious physical, psychological, or financial harm due to sexual harassment in the workplace; however, it argues against legal action against sexually oriented behaviors and comments that merely reflect bad taste, insensitivity, and poor manners. Such behavior may cause discomfort, anger, and disgust for multitudes of women, but should be handled outside of legal forums. A second article pursues the same theme as it cautions against excesses in legal efforts to regulate the character of male-female interactions in the workplace. It also notes the unfairness of making employers liable for the unknown and usually uncontrollable behaviors and attitudes of their employees. A third article reports on a survey of sexual harassment in the United Methodist Church. It concludes that clergywomen were more likely to experience sexual harassment than clergymen and that the most pervasive forms of perceived sexual harassment are the most ambiguous and most difficult to interpret. Other articles advise against extremes in harassment policies in the university setting, in attempts to suppress pornography, and in feminist efforts to forge a unisex culture.