Quid pro quo harassment is a form of workplace discrimination that occurs when an employer or supervisor makes job benefits contingent upon an employee’s submission to unwelcome sexual advances. It can be either explicit or implicit threats, but in either case, it’s illegal and should not be tolerated.

Quid pro quo harassment can have severe consequences for both victims and perpetrators alike, so it’s essential to understand what constitutes this type of behaviour and how to address it if you encounter it in your workplace.

This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of quid pro quo harassment, including its definition, examples, legal implications, and tips on preventing it from happening in your organization.

What is Quid Pro Quo Harassment?

Quid Pro Quo harassment is a type of discrimination which occurs when a job benefit or detriment is offered in exchange for an action that can be perceived as sexual in nature. This includes, but is not limited to the following:

• Making threats of termination or promotion, granting or denying work opportunities

• Providing special privileges or access to information

• Setting performance goals that are impossible to achieve

• Making intimidating comments about a person’s physical appearance.

Quid pro quo harassment has been illegal for decades in the United States. Legal Protection from Quid Pro Quo Harassment is provided by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and other state and federal laws. These laws prohibit employers from discriminating against individuals based on their gender, race, religion, national origin or disability. Additionally, employers have an obligation to provide a safe and respectful workplace free from any form of discrimination. 

This law was later amended by Title VII of the Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1972 which states that quid pro quo harassment is a form of discrimination that is prohibited in the workplace.

Continue Reading:

• How to Respond if You Suspect or Experience Quid Pro Quo Harassment 

• How Employers Can Prevent and Address Allegations of Quid Pro Quo Harassment

• The Impact of Unchecked and Unaddressed Cases of quid pro quo harassment on the Workplace

• Common Misconceptions About quid pro quo harassment in the Workplace  

• Tips for Creating a Respectful Work Environment Free From Any Form Of Discrimination

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