Sexual harassment is a pervasive employment law problem in many American workplaces. Indiana residents suffer from its detrimental effects and many experience repercussions when they stand up for themselves to their aggressors. However, victims of sexual harassment do not have to deal with their serious employment law problems on their own. They can seek the counsel and support of committed attorneys to advise and advocate for them in their complaints.
There are two general forms of workplace sexual harassment, and this post will address one of those forms. Quid pro quo harassment is unfortunately common, and readers should get help if they fall victim to it in their places of employment. No part of this post should be read as legal guidance.
What is quid pro quo harassment?
Quid pro quo harassment is sexual harassment based on an exchange. It effectively involves a supervisor or person of power in an employment situation conditioning an employment benefit on a subordinate’s submission to a sexual favor. For example, a worker may be offered a promotion if the agree to date their boss.
What are the elements of quid pro quo harassment?
Quid pro quo claims involve proving different elements in order to be successful. Those elements include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Employment by the victim at the offending organization
- Unwanted sexual harassment
- Conditional job opportunities based on the harasser’s sexual requests
- The harasser having a position of power over the victim
- Harm suffered by the victim
Building a claim based on quid pro quo sexual harassment can be complicated for an individual who is worried about their job and unfamiliar with the legal system. When workplace problems arise, it can benefit victims to seek the help of knowledgeable employment law attorneys for guidance and support.
