In some cases, those who are being sexually harassed at work are simply being victimized by someone who is attracted to them. For instance, maybe you have a coworker who asked you out, and you told them no. If they continue to pester you and ask you out repeatedly, this could be a form of harassment.
But do not assume that harassment and attraction always go hand-in-hand. What you will find is that a lot of cases of sexual harassment have nothing to do with either person wanting a relationship with the other. So what is actually happening in the workplace? Why are you experiencing this treatment?
It’s a demonstration of power
In this situation, what is often going on is that one person is demonstrating their power over another. They may also simply be enjoying the fact that they can get things that they want by abusing that position of power.
For instance, this could be why a CEO would ask for sexual favors from someone who is up for a promotion. The CEO knows that they have the power to grant or deny that promotion. They may use this position to get sexual favors from someone else, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that they have ever thought about having a relationship in the first place. It’s far more about power dynamics than anything else in a quid pro quo situation like the hypothetical example above.
What are your options?
Needless to say, you do not deserve to be treated like this at work for any reason. If you have been, make sure you know what legal options you have.