Sexual harassment and misconduct refer to a broad range of inappropriate, unwelcome behaviours of a sexual nature and the common thread is a lack of informed consent. Some examples of sexual harassment include:
- Making unwelcome verbal or physical advances
- Stalking
- Unwelcome touching in a sexual way
- Making offensive or sexually explicit comments (like catcalling)
- Persistent unwanted sexual advances
- Making derogatory sexist remarks, gestures, or suggestions
- Making sexually embarrassing ‘jokes’
- Displaying sexually explicit images or materials
- Sending inappropriate texts and emails to or about you
- Asking inappropriate sexual questions, for example about your sexual history or sexual orientation
The sexual assault and rape page covers issues of sexual violence.
Resources
- Information and help after rape and sexual assault (Scottish Government)
- Information and support for anyone experiencing sexual violence and harassment in the workplace (Scottish Women’s Rights Centre)
- Acas gives employees and employers free, impartial advice on workplace rights, rules and best practice.
- Image-based abuse. Safer Scotland (Scottish Government) provides information, support and guidance on how to report image-based abuse. Victim Support also provides advice and support.