Education Week released a updated study mirroring data from a 2015 survey by Cosmopolitan magazine in which 23% of female educators who participated in the survey stated they had been sexually harassed in their workplace. According to Cosmopolitan, educational institutions have been ranked among the places where employees were less likely to be sexually assaulted and harassed. Women who work in the food service industry and construction have faced the most reported harassment and assault. The women who participated in the survey had an age range of 18 to 34. One in every three respondents reported that they had been sexually harassed while at work.
The issue of sexual harassment of students, by other students remains a serious problem. Over 10% of Kindergarten through 12th grade students are victims of educator sexual harassment and abuse according to Stop Educator Sexual Abuse and Misconduct and Exploitations. Between 1% and 5% of educators are abusing students with harassment, according to Counter Pedophilia Investigative Unit.
Administration in every school should be well aware and concerned of the consequences of sexual harassment within their institutions. Emotional, mental and physical harm is the most obvious ramification of this type of abuse but also the legality. Title IX regulations have specific guidelines regarding sexual harassment and abuse claims. Communication between school administration and leaders can help to prevent the harassment from starting in the first place. Much work is needed to maintain a safe environment for students and teachers.
Education Week Sexual Harassment Statistics:
- 25% of female educators and 6% of male educators have faced sexual harassment or assault in the workplace, while 40% have either been the victim or have witnessed such incidents.
- Experts say that “permissive school cultures where abusers are not punished, as well as power differentials between early-career teachers and their superiors, create situations that can be ripe for abuse”. Over 60% of educators who have witnessed or experienced sexual harassment or assault in the workplace fail to report it, out of fear of the future of their career or safety.
- Sexual harassment unfortunately appears to be less of an issue for educators than in many other professions as 91% of educators who had worked in other fields said sexual harassment was more common in other workplaces.
If you have been a victim of any type of sexual harassment at your place of work please call the sexual abuse attorneys at Alonso Krangle LLP at 800-403-6191 or through our website at www.fightforvictims.com. Any unwanted and offensive behavior toward you can result in financial compensation. Please do not hesitate. Call us today to review your legal rights.