Although the fear is real and is experienced by many, it is largely groundless. The written complaint must provide details of the alleged harassment including dates, specific actions or statements which were regarded as harassment. That complaint must be signed and a copy is given to the respondent within 5 working days of the submission of the written statement to the Dean or Vice President. This requirement for a detailed written statement which the respondent will see acts as a ddeterrent to those few who might think of making a false or vexatious complaint and discourage anyone considering filing a false complaint. Bieng on the receiving end of a formal complaint of sexual harassment is a very difficult experience.
Respondents are often embarrassed and angry.
My job at Carleton does not depend on the filing of formal complaints of sexual harassment. I neither encourage nor disencourage complainants from filing complaints. I feel strongly that only complainants can decide whether or not to file a formal complaint.