Sexual Harassment: Quid Pro Quo

Quid pro quo sexual harassment occurs when an employment opportunity (e.g., hiring, compensation, advancement, etc.) or an educational opportunity (e.g., admission, grades, research, etc.) is conditioned by an employee upon the targeted student or employee submitting to unwelcome requests or demands for sexual favors. Only individuals with authority to grant or withhold employment or educational opportunities can engage in quid pro quo sexual harassment. In some cases, quid pro quo sexual harassment is obvious and may involve an overt action, threat, or reprisal. In other instances, it is subtle and indirect, with a coercive aspect that is unstated. Examples of behavior that might be considered quid pro quo sexual harassment include, but are not limited to:

a. Physical coercion or pressure of an individual to engage in sexual activity or punishment for a refusal to respond or comply with sexual advances.

b. Use of a position of power or authority to: (a) threaten or punish, either directly or by implication, for refusing to tolerate harassment, for refusing to submit to sexual activity, or for reporting harassment; or (b) promise rewards in return for sexual favors