Sexual harassment has been in the news more than ever in the last few years. From famous actors to unnamed hotel patrons, women and men who have been victims of sexual harassment are making their voices heard. Sexual harassment in the workplace is a form of illegal sex discrimination.

Quid pro quo sexual harassment occurs when an employer or superior offers promotions to an employee in exchange for sexual acts or threatens to fire the employee if he or she does not submit to sexual acts. “Hostile work environment” sexual harassment refers to situations where the employee's work environment is made offensive or hostile due to sexual conduct that negatively affects the employee’s work performance.

Patient Harassment is Par for the Course According to Nurses

Nursing is generally considered to be an extremely demanding career, both physically and emotionally. Nurses are responsible for tasks such as starting intravenous lines, taking blood samples, washing patients, and administering medicine, among much more. They are often physically close to their patients and many of these patients are disabled, elderly, taking medicine which can affect their cognitive abilities, or have been using drugs and alcohol. The combination of the close proximity of nurses to patients along with these other factors has resulted in many nurses being put in uncomfortable and inappropriate situations.

Allegations of child abuse, both real and imagined, are sadly common in many divorce cases, as emotions run high and dirty laundry may be aired. If your spouse has lodged accusations of child abuse or domestic abuse against you as a part of your divorce proceeding, it is important to know how to react so that you can protect the relationship you have with your children as well as your reputation.

Interacting With DCFS

In Illinois, the Department of Children & Family Services (DCFS) is required by law to investigate any accusation of child abuse, regardless of its source. Even if you know at the outset that the accusation is spurious, DCFS has a legal mandate to investigate, and the law must be followed. While it is understandable that you might be offended or angry at the insinuation that you would act in a negative manner toward your children, DCFS officers might take such behavior as defensiveness. This is not to say that DCFS personnel will never make unreasonable requests. If you feel that a request or order is unrealistic or inappropriate, it is generally best to consult with your attorney and possibly the court.

Usually, when someone is cooperative, DCFS will conclude their investigation more quickly. During the investigation, you may be prevented from seeing your children, as the state's interest is in their safety. However, this is not a permanent state of affairs; unless confirming evidence of abuse is uncovered, you will generally be able to argue for at least joint parental responsibilities in the normal manner.

We would like to believe that we live in an age where mistreating another person due to gender, race, sexual orientation, religion or any other personal characteristic is a thing of the past. Of course, we realize that there will always be certain individuals who behave poorly, but overall, our allegedly “enlightened” society should not have to deal with such problems on a widespread basis. Unfortunately, however, reality does not always match our expectations. A recent study has found that an overwhelming majority of American women will experience some form of sexual harassment before they reach the age of 25.

A Study on Relationships and Sex

A team of researchers from Harvard University conducted in-depth surveys of more than 3,000 high school students and young adults between ages 18 and 25. The study examined how young people approach romantic and sexual relationships based on their personal values and past experiences. While the research covered a variety of topics such as the perception of the so-called “hook-up” culture and concerns about building meaningful romantic relationships, the results revealed some rather disturbing details.

The research team asked participants for their opinions on gender roles and portrayals in our society. About 40 percent of respondents agreed or were neutral regarding the idea that it is “rare to see a woman treated in an inappropriately sexualized manner on television.” Additionally, one-third of young men and one-fifth of young women believed that a man should be dominant in a romantic relationship while only 14 percent of males and 10 percent of females thought a woman should have a more dominant role.

Divorce can be difficult and painful for any couple, but victims of domestic violence face a unique situation that few understand. These cases are not generally about who gets the house, the kids, or the dog. Instead, they are focused on safety and security. Victims must take extra precautions. Above all else, they need strong allies and advocates in their corner to help protect them from further acts of violence. If you are a victim of domestic violence and are seeking a divorce, there are steps you can take to help you move forward safely, securely, and with a measure of confidence.

Be Prepared for Potential Safety Issues

Whether you are still living with an abusive partner and making plans, or have recently moved out and are afraid as to what may happen in the weeks and months to come, it is important that you take immediate steps to protect yourself. If you have not done so yet, take photographs of any bruises or injuries. Gather any medical documents you may have on previous injuries.

In addition, you should talk to your friends, family, and coworkers about your situation. This can help to ensure everyone knows that you may be at risk. Victims are also encouraged to seek a restraining order, which can be obtained through an experienced attorney. You may also wish to speak to the police about pressing criminal charges.

Despite continued public awareness efforts and educational campaigns, sexual harassment continues to be a problem in today’s society. But, where does the root of the problem lie? Is it simply based in misogyny or are there more complex factors that must be considered? Research is beginning to show that bullying behavior at a young age may be linked with sexual harassment down the road, giving credence to the idea that sexual harassment is, at its core, another form of establishing dominance in a given arena.

A Pattern of Behavior

Several recent studies, including studies from the University of Illinois and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, found that young adolescent boys who bullied classmates were 4.6 times more likely to commit sexual harassment later in life. Additionally, boys who engaged in homophobic taunts or teasing related to gender or sexual orientation in school were 1.6 times more likely to engage in sexual harassment later.