Sexual harassment in the workplace: it is your problem.
OBJECTIVE
Sexual harassment and hostile work environments are explored. Managerial roles are discussed, including taking a proactive approach and dealing appropriately with an employee's claim.


BACKGROUND
Nurse managers must confront the issue of sexual harassment as complaints continue to develop throughout the industry. Because managers are responsible for employees' actions, it is essential that they familiarize themselves with what constitutes the act and how to handle a claim.


RESULTS
Sexual harassment is defined by US Civil Rights Acts (1964 and 1991), US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, UK's Equal Opportunities Commission, American Nurses Association and the Royal College of Nursing. Frederick Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory of Motivation is also related to workplace sexual harassment.


RESULTS
Sexual harassment is a widespread problem within the industry, claiming both men and women as its victims. Managers can be held responsible for sexual harassment even if they are unaware of the existence of behaviour.
Kane-Urrabazo
Christine
C
Texas Woman's University, Denton and Postmasters Family Nurse Practitioner Student, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79912, USA. christine@elp.rr.com
D004648:Employee Grievances / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D006791:Hostility; D006801:Humans; D007588:Job Satisfaction; D009042:Motivation; D009718:Nurse Administrators / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000523:psychology; D024802:Nurse's Role / Q000523:psychology; D009740:Nursing Staff / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000523:psychology; D016272:Occupational Health; D011582:Psychological Theory; D017406:Sexual Harassment / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology; D006113:United Kingdom; D014481:United States; D017132:Workplace / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000523:psychology