Benue State University, Makurdi

Review of Literatures on Definition of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace: Underscoring their Prescriptive Implication

Adetutu D. Aina-Pelemo*, Paul A. Ejembi**, Iseoluwa T. Aina***

Abstract

Sexual harassment is a prevalent problem which occurs in different sectors. Laws define sexual harassment in the workplace according to their jurisdiction, considering the lack of universal meaning of sexual harassment. These varied interpretations have led to a lot of controversies, as sexual harassment in the workplace is measured according to diverse apparatuses, circumstances, and individual perception. The focus of this review is to examine the various definitions given to sexual harassment in selected countries so as to ascertain the major elements and gaps as well as their prescriptive implications in preventing, prohibiting and redressing sexual harassment in the workplace. In achieving this review, the definitions are classified based on perception in developed and developing countries, and doctrinal research methodology is adopted in extracting information for this review. The review finds that most of the definitions of sexual harassment exclude gender-based harassment and patently stand in need of copious clarifications for the benefit of stakeholders in the workplace. The review recommends a more comprehensive definition of sexual harassment to encompass all possible connotations of the concept along gender lines so as to engender a more illuminating understanding of sexual harassment in the workplace.

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