In addition, nationwide studies indicate that most incidents of sexual harassment, like rape, are not reported at all. Victims feel ashamed of what has happened to them. Rather than face embarrassment and reprisals, many victims just leave their jobs quietly. This, of course, leaves the harasser free to victimize others. Victims of sexual harassment should not try to ignore it or assume it is a joke or an accident.
Sexual harassment is a wrongful use of power.
Experience shows that harassment will continue or increase if it is ignored. Victims should not blame themselves for someone else's bad behavior. Most sexual harassers have victimized more than one person. Make it clear that you do not approve of his or her actions and that any repetition will be reported to a supervisor. This is not an easy step, especially if the offender is your supervisor, but it is important to let the offender know that his or her conduct is not welcome by you.