Sexual harassment: a symptom of the power game

Since women entered the workforce in large numbers, the issue of sexual harassment has taken on a momentum of its own. Although women may be highly educated, have the required qualifications, and work side by side with men, almost 60% are subjected to unwanted sexually determined behavior by the opposite sex. Even female doctors are not exempt, and many are harassed by male superior doctors, consultants, interns, and patients. In educational institutions, about 55% of students complain of bullying by teachers or fellow students. One cannot walk the streets or ride public transport without being harassed by thugs or pranksters. Sexual harassment cuts across all socioeconomic barriers.

Gender discrimination and role stereotypes are the reason for such behavior. Some men feel that women leaving their homes to work violate the biological roles of wife, mother, and homemaker.

Women have also come up with extreme ideas of playing “superwomen.” Some aspects of feminism make men clearly uncomfortable and paranoid. They try to get revenge through sexual harassment. After all, they too are victims of stereotypes. Most men think that “nice women” are not sexually harassed. But “bad women” cause trouble by their behavior and clothing.

In the context of this rapidly changing socioeconomic scenario, more women are likely to seek employment outside their homes. Therefore, it is time for society to remember that women are human beings too and should be allowed the dignity of their rights.

What is sexual harassment?

Every woman has the right to her own private space. When that space is violated by verbal, non-verbal, or physical forms of sexually suggestive behavior, it amounts to harassment. This covers a range of behaviors ranging from unwanted comments about a person’s body to sexual abuse and assault. The stalker may be overtly sexist in her comments or present an appearance of respectability, but make clever passes or propositions when the victim is alone.

Types of bullying.

o Predators get a kick out of humiliating women, whether it’s through advances, prank calls, teasing Eva, or phone sex. They make sexually colored comments or unwanted physical contact by pinching, fondling, kissing, or groping.

o The most common type is quid pro quo harassment in which sexual favors are expected in exchange for jobs, promotions, grades, or recommendations. This is a gross abuse of power by employers, teachers, politicians, or film directors with ‘casting couch’ requirements.

o Some men establish a mentor-like relationship with the victim by pretending to offer professional or academic advice. But soon his sexual intentions surface.

o Serial stalkers are masters at the game. They hit in private so there are no witnesses. It’s just the victim’s word against yours.

o Some use bullying as an ego boost. Victims are subjected to pornographic films, nude photos, and suggestive language.

o Bullying can be used as a revenge tactic if a person feels rejected or slighted. These bullies make physical or verbal advances, use foul language, make crude jokes, and create an unpleasant environment.

o There are stalkers who watch, follow, blink or bombard the victim with letters or emails.

o Many operate in groups, harassing women on buses, trains or on highways by pulling at their clothes, or touching their breasts or buttocks.

Effects of sexual harassment.

Psychologists believe that chronic sexual harassment has the same effect as rape or sexual assault. The message bullies send is that “you’re not a person. You don’t matter. Therefore, I’m free to bully you.”

– Many victims begin to show poor performance at work or in studies

– Some move to another city, work or university.

– The victim feels humiliated and frustrated for not having control of the situation.

– Depression, anxiety, headache or fatigue may follow. Some may go crazy or attempt suicide.

How to deal with sexual harassment.

This is a punishable offense and each country has its own laws. Every woman should be aware of her rights under the law. Sexual harassment must be recognized and not ignored. The victim must resist and show distance from her in the face of such conduct. She can have an open conversation with her stalker and tell her to say goodbye to her.

This can have unpleasant repercussions, especially if he is the boss. He may begin to find fault with his work, send him memos or withhold recommendations, and make his life miserable.

The victim should not fall into doubt and lose confidence in herself. By not challenging the sexual harassment, she may undermine her position. She must continue to go to work or college. But she must also document bullying incidents, date, time, place, and people involved and witnesses. She must submit a written complaint with specific details to whomever she is under supervision.

It’s good to talk to women who have been harassed in a similar way and form a support group for each other. There are many women’s groups and NGOs that will take up the victim’s cause if management does not come to their aid.

If the harassment of a serious nature takes place in a public place, the matter should be brought to the attention of the police.

Employer’s liability.

– Employers, both in the public and private sectors, must take steps to prevent sexual harassment.

– There must be a defined policy in this regard, which must be published and distributed to all employees.

– A procedure must be established for the presentation of complaints. This must have a time limit, and the victim must be assured of confidentiality and protection.

– A Complaints Committee headed by a woman must review the complaint. The committee should be made up of 50% female members when possible.

– Disciplinary action should be taken against the harasser. If his behavior falls under criminal law, he should be reported to the police.

Any woman who complains about sexual harassment should prepare for a backlash. She risks hostility, isolation, denigration of character, or even physical harm.

It must be the objective and responsibility of society to eliminate sexual harassment at all levels and in all situations, to preserve the dignity of women.