• 04
  • May
    2011

Each week we sift through dozens of sexual harassment and discrimination stories when we are researching topics to write about. The unfortunate reality is that sexual harassment continues to be a threat to all California employees. Proportionately, the majority of individuals who file sexual harassment cases are female. However, according to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, more than 16 percent of sexual harassment claims are filed by men.

In total, there were nearly 12,000 cases filed and resolved in 2010 alone. Sexual harassment in the workplace is illegal, but the law is the not the only thing at stake when individuals are harassed.

It should be obvious that sexual harassment negatively impacts the victim. However, when individuals create a hostile work environment, it is not just the target of harassment who suffers. Anyone who witnesses the harassment and is unable to help may feel powerless.

Sexual harassment also has negative impacts on the tangible assets of businesses in San Francisco. Recent verdicts in California have averaged $350,000 to $1 million. Businesses and individuals can easily spend thousands in legal fees and administrative costs.

Many sexual harassment cases are quid pro quo, which is loosely translated as "this for that."

Quid pro quo harassment usually occurs when a person of authority demands a sexual favor and in turn promises a favorable condition at work. If the victim declines, he or she will likely be subjected retaliation, demotion or wrongful termination. When an individual is harassed in a quid pro quo nature, the employer can be held liable regardless of whether the illegal behavior had been reported previously.

Source: All Business, "Sexual Harassment Is Alive and Well in American's Businesses," Nancy Germond, 30 April 2011