Posted: February 9th, 2023

Sexual harassment or sexual abuse

What are the delimiting factors which determine whether or not an individual is experiencing sexual harassment or sexual abuse according to Balswick and Balswick in Authentic Human Sexuality (2008)?
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In the book “Authentic Human Sexuality” (2008), Balswick and Balswick define sexual harassment and sexual abuse as distinct but related forms of sexual misconduct. According to the authors, several delimiting factors determine whether an individual is experiencing sexual harassment or sexual abuse.
The first delimiting factor is the nature of the behavior. The authors define sexual harassment as “unwanted and unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature” (p. 365). This definition includes a wide range of behaviors, such as unwanted sexual comments or gestures, sexual jokes or innuendos, and unwanted physical touching. In contrast, sexual abuse is defined as “any form of sexual activity that is forced or coerced” (p. 365). This includes behaviors such as rape, sexual assault, and child sexual abuse.
The second delimiting factor is the power dynamic between the perpetrator and the victim. The authors note that sexual harassment is often committed by individuals who have more power or authority than the victim, such as a supervisor or boss. The perpetrator may use their power to coerce the victim into complying with their sexual advances or to retaliate if the victim resists. In contrast, sexual abuse is often characterized by a clear imbalance of power between the perpetrator and the victim, such as in cases of rape or child sexual abuse.
The third delimiting factor is the impact of the behavior on the victim. The authors note that sexual harassment can have a significant psychological and emotional impact on the victim, such as feelings of anxiety, depression, and self-doubt. Additionally, sexual harassment can negatively impact the victim’s work or school performance. In contrast, the impact of sexual abuse can be even more severe, including physical injuries and long-term emotional trauma.
The fourth delimiting factor is the context of the behavior. The authors note that sexual harassment is more likely to occur in a professional or educational setting, where the perpetrator and victim may have a working or educational relationship. In contrast, sexual abuse can occur in a variety of settings, including within a romantic relationship or within a family.
The delimiting factors which determine whether an individual is experiencing sexual harassment or sexual abuse according to Balswick and Balswick in Authentic Human Sexuality (2008) includes the nature of the behavior, the power dynamic between the perpetrator and the victim, the impact of the behavior on the victim, and the context of the behavior. Understanding these factors can help individuals recognize and respond to sexual misconduct appropriately.