Quid pro quo harassment is a term that is used mostly in relation with workplace or educational environments to define a type of sexual harassment where a person in authority requires sexual gratification in return for job benefits or educational privileges. The term “quid pro quo” is a Latin phrase that means “something for something,” representing a situation when one thing is given in return for another. In such instances, the harasser might suggest or state outright that the victim’s employment, promotion, pay rise, grades, or academic opportunities are dependent on the victim agreeing to sexual overtures or a relationship.
This type of harassment is prohibited by law in most jurisdictions and is recognized as a severe violation of an individual’s rights as it ties their professional or academic progress to unwanted sexual behavior. It weakens the quality of work places and educational institutions by promoting environments that promote advancement not through merit but through submission to harassment. Learn more: What Is Quid Pro Quo Sexual Harassment and Hostile Work Environment?
What is quid pro quo harassment intended to do?
Quid pro quo harassment meaning is a form of exploitation of a power difference where a person in the position of power uses their authority to force the victim to comply with unwanted sexual advances or behaviors in exchange for professional or academic rewards. This type of harassment is used to force or manipulate the victim into obeying the harasser’s wishes by making important elements of their job or education, for instance, promotions, raises, grades, or opportunities, contingent upon their compliance.
Quid pro quo harassment aims not only at getting sexual favors but also at asserting and abusing power over the victim, thus creating a situation in which it is the harasser who has the final say in the professional or academic future of the victim. This is not only a violation of the dignity and rights of the individual but also a destruction of the fairness and equality in the workplace or educational settings, thus, creating a culture of harassment where success depends on the ability to withstand or submit to the harassment.
