Sexual favoritism falls under the category of Hostile Environment of the federal law governing harassment and discrimination in the workplace.
Sexual favoritism It is not a federal law in itself (although some states declare it as such), but an aspect of the Quid Pro Quo or the Hostile Environment that is worth exploring.
This type of harassment occurs when employees, who submit to the sexual demands of a manager or supervisor, are rewarded by that manager or supervisor. However, it is important to note that the injured party (s) are not the party (s) who filed, but rather those who did not do so and are denied the benefits of the presentation.
In other words, employees who are otherwise denied raises or promotions can claim they were penalized for sexual attention directed at favored co-workers.
How has the court ruled in these cases?
- The courts have not considered sexual harassment isolated events and submission without coercion to sexual demands.
- The employer can be held liable for unlawful sex discrimination against others who were qualified for that employment opportunity or benefit but were denied.
- Supervisors can also be held accountable.
Court case
Astra AB, a Swedish company, admitted that it allowed a hostile work environment, including requests for sexual favors in exchange for favorable treatment, for women at its US headquarters in Westboro, Massachusetts.
Grant: $ 9,850,000 in money damages
For more information on other types of sexual harassment, read about Quid Pro Quo or sexual harassment by non-employees.
Protect your business from this type of harassment. Make sure your employees are well trained in harassment and discrimination prevention and awareness.
