Research conducted at Stanford University indicates that reporting sexual harassment may impact a woman’s chances of getting promoted. Specifically, women who self-report sexual harassment face a greater risk of not being treated fairly, although the #MeToo movement may be reducing that risk.
In a national survey, respondents were asked to read a fictitious employee file describing a woman who was a satisfactory employee and very enthusiastic about her work. Respondents were provided with identical information except for the inclusion of information concerning whether harassment was reported.
- Participants were more likely to promote the woman if sexual or non-sexual harassment of the woman was reported by a co-worker.
- Participants were less likely to promote the woman if she self-reported sexual harassment.
The studies were first conducted in October 2017, a few weeks before the #MeToo hashtag began trending. The experiments were then repeated four times during subsequent months when the #MeToo movement was gaining momentum. The later experiments revealed a decrease in the bias against the woman who self-reported sexual harassment. This suggests that cultural attitudes shifted, although it is unknown if the changes will be permanent. Sexual harassment is still widespread, and many women choose not to report sexual harassment to avoid harming their careers.
If you have been subjected to sexual harassment at work, you do not have to deal with it alone. The Philadelphia sexual harassment lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C. understand the complexities of bringing a successful sexual harassment lawsuit and will seek justice for you. For a free consultation, call us today at 215-569-1999 or complete our online form. With offices in Philadelphia and Pennsauken, New Jersey, we serve clients throughout Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, Montgomery County, and throughout South Jersey.
