University of Maine System: Sexual Harassment in the Classroom and the Workplace

Relevant Excerpt

Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, including sexual assault and sexual violence. Sexual harassment, including sexual assault, can involve persons of the same or opposite sex. Sexual harassment can include: sexual assault, stalking, deliberate touching, pinching, caressing, attempts to fondle, pressure for dates or sex, and requests for sex in exchange for grades or promotions. There are two types of sexual harassment: quid pro quo and hostile environment. ... Hostile Environment: Sexual harassment that creates a hostile environment is based on sex and exists when the harassment: Is subjectively and objectively offensive; and Is so severe or pervasive as to alter the conditions of a person’s employment, education or living situation that it creates an abusive working, educational or living environment.