College Women’s Interpretations of Sexual Harassment: What We Know, What Can Be Done

• In Event: Roundtable Session 38
  In Roundtable Session: Division J Section 6 Roundtable 6

Abstract

Sexual harassment is a recurrent issue in the academy with systemic consequences. The American Association of University Women (AAUW) enumerates long-term effects of sexual harassment, including physical, emotional, and academic. This assertion is critical for higher education policy since women outnumber men on college campuses (Behling, 2007 cited in Pasque, 2008; Hill & Silva, 2005). We frame this study by multiple feminisms, which accentuate institutional structures that buffer patriarchal constructions of gender. The purpose of the study was to explore women’s perceptions of sexual harassment in the academy. Findings and implications reveal connections between policy on sexual harassment and institutional culture. Our participants offer policy suggestions and strategies to help policy-makers create transformation interventions and alterations of institutional culture.

Authors

• Catherine Marshall, University of North Carolina

• Stephanie N. Galloway, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill

• Keren Dalyot, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill