Men Report Being Less Concerned About Sexual Harassment
May 1, 2019
Sexual harassment continues to occur in the workplace, affecting both men and women. Oftentimes, sexual harassment may continue for prolonged periods because the victim may feel intimidated or afraid to speak out. However, since the #MeToo movement, more people have been coming forward about sexual harassment in the workplace.
A recent Gallup poll sheds light on how men think of harassment in the workplace today, compared to the past. In 2017, 73 percent of women in the U.S. stated that sexual harassment in the workplace was a major problem, compared to 66 percent of men. While many Americans still hold that opinion, men are beginning to think differently.
Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
Sexual harassment can be defined as any unwelcome physical, verbal, or non-verbal sexual conduct based on someone’s sex. The sexual conduct must be severe and pervasive, and negatively affect one’s working conditions. Types of sexual harassment include:
- Inappropriate touching, either above or underneath clothing
- Kissing or hugging
- Making sexual jokes or comments
- Sharing inappropriate sexual images or videos
- Quid pro quo harassment, which occurs when an employee is offered special treatment in exchange for sexual favors
The poll also found that women are four times more likely than men to admit being sexually harassed. In 2017, 66 percent of men said that sexual harassment in the workplace was a major problem. As of 2019, that number decreased to 53 percent. Forty-five percent of men also said that individuals in the workplace are too sensitive toward sexual harassment, which increased from 33 percent in 2017. Similarly, 55 percent of men aged 18 to 49 consider sexual harassment to be a major issue, compared to 71 percent in 2017. While the reason men’s views changed is unknown, the increasing number of sexual misconduct allegations against high-profile men may be a factor.
#MeToo Movement
The #MeToo movement was founded to stand against sexual violence and harassment. Many women have spoken out about being sexually harassed. Since the start of the movement, men have become less likely to speak out and take a stand against sexual harassment. In 2018, only 48 percent of American women said that they were treated with respect and dignity, which decreased 14 percent from 2017. However, the rise of women in powerful positions, such as in Congress and corporate companies across the country, can help address the problem of sexual harassment in the workplace.
Cherry Hill Employment Lawyers at Sidney L. Gold & Associates, P.C. Represent Victims of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
If you or someone you know was the victim of sexual harassment at work, the Cherry Hill employment lawyers at Sidney L. Gold & Associates, P.C. can help. We will fight tirelessly to obtain the justice you deserve. Contact us online for a free consultation or call us at 215-569-1999 today. Our office is in Pennsauken, New Jersey, and we proudly represent clients across South Jersey.
