Sexual harassment is a persistent problem in workplaces throughout California, and recognizing it is an important step towards both reporting it and potentially taking action. According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, there are two main types of sexual harassment, called the “hostile work environment” and “quid pro quo” harassment.
A hostile work environment occurs as a result of both physical and non-physical harassment, such as derogatory or vulgar remarks, inappropriate touching, and so forth. “Quid pro quo” harassment occurs when an individual’s job or livelihood hangs in the balance in response to sexual propositions. These types of harassment may occur separately or concurrently.