Sexual harassment is not, primarily, an expression of sexual desire on the part of the harasser toward the victim. A harasser might be:
- Trying to fit in with a peer group, e.g., “locker room talk,” “being one of the guys.”
- Consciously or subconsciously asserting power, dominance, or control over the victim, putting victims in “their place.”
- Attempting to coerce victims into acting a certain way, e.g., “don’t talk back,” “don’t ask questions,” accepting a less desirable schedule.
Anyone, regardless of race, color, age, religion, sex, or ancestry, could be a victim of harassment or discrimination. Those involved can be victims, bystanders, and in some cases, witnesses affected by the harassment.
