Discussions of sexual harassment are often overly simplistic. People frequently think of sexual harassment as specifically involving someone in a position of authority abusing a subordinate at work. Oftentimes, people conjure images of quid pro quo harassment wherein a male manager pressures or threatens a female subordinate into romantic or sexual concessions.
Such harassment absolutely does occur, but it is far from the only type of sexual harassment that people experience in the workplace. Women can harass men, and there are also many cases of sexual harassment that involve two or more individuals of the same sex. Those who don’t understand what the variety of conduct that may constitute sexual harassment might unknowingly feel that they need to accept abuse at work that is legally prohibited, including mistreatment from someone of the same sex.
Unwanted flirting or advances
Quid pro quo harassment doesn’t just involve men targeting women from positions of authority. Some male managers are homosexual or bisexual, while others simply enjoy the feeling of power. There are some male bosses who will harass male subordinates exclusively or in addition to their female employees. There are also some women who become abusive after assuming a position of authority at a business, and they may target other female employees by flirting with them or offering them some kind of job perks for romantic or sexual favors. The motive could be actual sexual attraction or a display of personal power. Quid pro quo harassment can absolutely occur between two members of the same sex.
Bullying that creates a hostile work environment
One of the more common forms of same-sex sexual harassment has nothing to do with interpersonal attraction. Female coworkers might gang up on another employee, spreading rumors about her sexual preferences or history. Male workers might target gender non-conforming or homosexual co-workers for abuse and harassment. If the conduct of co-workers makes someone feel unsafe and unsupported on the job, the situation may involve a hostile work environment. People may have a harder time doing their jobs when dealing with a hostile work environment. They could also end up losing out on projects and promotions because of the attitudes of their co-workers.
Broadening one’s definition of sexual harassment is often necessary for those who want to push back against workplace misconduct. Seeking legal guidance to clarify one’s impressions of what kinds of conduct are and are not lawful can be a solid place to start.