Sexual harassment does not always include specific sexual behavior and does not need to be directed at a specific person. According to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network, “sexual harassment includes unwelcomed sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical harassment of sexual nature in the workplace or learning environment.” Negative comments toward a specific group or gender can be a form of sexual harassment.
RAINN, defines sexual assault as “sexual contact or behavior, often physical, that occurs without the consent of the victim.” Sexual assault is usually a criminal act, whereas sexual harassment is usually a violation of civil laws.