Graham has worked for a department of the federal government for seven years.For the past six months, he has repeatedly complained to his supervisor, Cheryl, about sexual harassment in the workplace.He claims that several of his colleagues, both female and male, have persistently commented on his physical appearance, asked him for dates even after he rejected their offers, and allowed sexually explicit materials to be seen on work station computers.Cheryl initially responded to Graham's complaints in good nature by telling him to "loosen up," "take a joke," and "be a man, for goodness sake." More recently, however, she has grown impatient, and has simply told him to "get back to work." Which of the following statements is TRUE?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Graham's supervisor's dismissive response and lack of action could be seen as the employer failing to actively prevent or inhibit sexual harassment, which could result in vicarious liability. Sexual harassment can be verbal or visual and does not require physical contact. Joking around in the workplace can still constitute sexual harassment if it creates a hostile or offensive work environment. Meeting the burden of proof for sexual harassment only requires showing that the behavior was unwelcome and created an intimidating, hostile or offensive work environment, not intent to cause grief. It is not impossible for men to succeed in an action for sexual harassment.

Graham Has Worked for a Department of the Federal Government