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What is sexual harassment?

September 19, 2018 General

Harvey Weinstein, Kevin Spacey, Ben Affleck, Dustin Hoffman, who’s next? Is this only happening on movie sets? While Hollywood reels from allegations that numerous stars have engaged in sexual harassment, the question arises, what is sexual harassment?

In the workplace, it generally falls under two categories, quid pro quo harassment and hostile work environment claims. In the first type of harassment, a boss or supervisor either holds back promotions, or worse, threatens to discipline, write-up a worker, or terminate the employment unless a worker agrees to his sexual advances. Faced with possibly losing a job, some women may feel they have to “go along” with the unwanted sexual advances or face unemployment. Hostile work environment claims are based on inappropriate comments, touching, or behavior of a supervisor toward an employee. Oftentimes complaints are made regarding the behavior, and the company fails or refuses to take action to stop the conduct.

If you believe you may be a victim of sexual harassment in the workplace, call Attorney Bruce Newman today at 860-583-5200.