Recommendations from Survivors on Improving the Workplace Response to Sexual Violence

• In Event: Poster Session 2

Abstract

Sexual harassment and workplace sexual assault is prevalent in the United States, particularly among marginalized workers. There are numerous negative workplace and mental health consequences of sexual harassment and violence on workers, and as such, some may decide to report and/or disclose in the workplace in order to receive support. In general, workplaces do not respond positively to survivors, but survivors have not been asked how workplaces should improve responses to sexual violence. This presentation uses qualitative interview data from a community sample of sexual assault survivors who sought support from their workplace following an unwanted sexual experience to explore recommendations for workplaces to improve their response to sexual violence. Based on the recommendations shared by survivors, we will present implications for future workplace policy and broader social change regarding workplace equity.

Author

• Katherine Lorenz, California State University, Northridge