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Did you know that sexual violence is described as any act or sexual advance that occurs without the victim’s consent? The most common form of sexual violence is sexual harassment, and it’s prevalent in the workplace.

If you have ever experienced unwelcome sexual advances or been subjected to uncomfortable sexual behaviour that makes you fear being harmed, you may have been a victim of sexual harassment. The harm caused can range from psychological to physical, but at times, victims can find it challenging to know when they have been sexually harassed. Read on to find out more about types of sexual harassment and signs to look out for.

Types of Sexual Harassment

There are various forms of harassment. However, sexual harassment is the most common and known type. Even though South Africa has measures to address and prevent all forms of sexual harassment, it is still a widespread issue that affects millions of children, women, and men.

There are specific groups of people who are most likely to be vulnerable to different types of harassment like children, women and persons living with disabilities. Outside of common sexual harassment, you should know about the following:

1. Physical contact harassment can include being touched in an unwanted manner. For instance, being hugged, kissed, or grabbed without consent is widespread sexual harassment. In worse circumstances, it can escalate to sexual assault and rape.
2. Non-verbal harassment includes indecent exposure to sexual images and objects. In some instances, it can lead to unwelcome sexual gestures.
3. Verbal harassment includes comments, jokes, suggestions, and hints that aren’t appropriated. These inappropriate comments are usually made directly to stir discomfort in victims.
4. Sexual favouritism is also known as quid pro quo harassment. This is a form of sexual harassment that’s prevalent in unequal relationship dynamics. In such instances, someone in a position of authority provides incentives to someone who responds to their unwelcome sexual advances.

Signs of Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment can happen to anyone. It can be challenging to know when someone is a victim. However, knowing how to recognise the signs of sexual harassment is crucial before the perpetrator’s actions worsen and potentially become violent sexual abuse.

You should trust your instincts when someone’s actions are subtle sexual harassment. If uncertain, you can use the following guidelines to distinguish their actions. You should be cautious when you notice any of these actions:

• Take note of the language they use when they speak to you. Are they making sexual remarks when unnecessary and continuing even when you’ve asked them to stop? Sexual comments can occur at your workplace and create a hostile environment if they aren’t addressed.
• A victim can show signs of unexplained discomfort and fear of specific individuals. If you notice a pattern of someone avoiding spaces and conversations with someone they used to get along with, that might be a sign that they’ve been receiving unwanted sexual attention. It’s crucial to speak to them to find out if they’ve been subjected to sexual harassment.
• Being stalked on social media and receiving inappropriate sexual images or messages is another seemingly subtle sign of sexual harassment. Someone gathering information about you online can seem harmless. Yet, this behaviour can lead to severe forms of sexual harassment if it persists.
• Constant flirting when you’ve asked someone to stop. In most cases, turning down romantic requests can lead to an unfavourable environment.
• You might be forced to play along in certain instances because the perpetrator’s actions may be unintentional. If you feel uncomfortable and ask someone to stop their offensive behaviour, they may make you think you are overreacting. If they carry on, this is a sign of sexual harassment.

How to Help a Victim of Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment can be traumatising, even if it seems harmless to others. A victim can be triggered and react in varying ways depending on how severe the encounter is. It’s essential to be cautious of how the incident has affected them.

Here are practical ways you can assist a victim of sexual harassment:

• Give them the time and space they need to process their emotions.
• Express care and concern and let them know you are there to help them.
• Encourage them to seek immediate professional help. If the sexual harassment becomes assault, ensure they receive immediate medical attention.
• Give them control and the confidence to make decisions to navigate the ordeal.
• Maintain confidentiality and understand your limitations when providing support.
• Don’t pry for details or make them believe it’s their fault.

iER has been at the forefront of assisting victims in connecting with social services to access counselling and rape crisis centres nationwide. The iER App ensures you stay connected to over 13 000 medical and non-medical providers to provide immediate emergency services 24/7. If you are a victim of sexual harassment, you can rely on iER to connect you to appropriate service providers to help manage your case.