When most people hear about sexual harassment in a workplace, they automatically think of employees of two different genders. Traditionally, men have been the perpetrators and women have been the victims. However, same-sex sexual harassment is a real concern that happens across many different workplaces every day. It’s more commonly reported than it used to be.
Both same-sex and opposite-sex sexual harassment are illegal. You may want to take time to learn about some examples of same-sex sexual harassment so that you will know what it is if you face it.
Female-on-female sexual harassment
Reports previously lodged with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) have cited some of the following allegations that may rise to the level of sexual harassment:
- Suggestive comments showing a preference for a worker’s more revealing clothing choices (and how they might enhance their career prospects or generate more customers)
- Unwarranted or unsolicited touching or grabbing
- Inappropriate discussions or inquiries about bodily functions and sexual interests
There has been a long history of women reporting same-sex harassment. However, employers have seldom investigated these reports.
Male-on-male sexual harassment
Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) data shows that most sexual harassment reported by men is from male colleagues. Some of the more common behaviors include:
- Sexually oriented actions or discussions
- Humiliation, embarrassment or belittling
- Sexually charged horseplay
Any such treatment may not just be considered not just sexual harassment but possibly discrimination based on sexual orientation. You may have a valid reason to file an EEOC claim if you’ve faced treatment similar to what’s been described above.