Sexual harassment decreases organizational productivity and significantly impacts the health of a work environment. In law enforcement, where officers must work long hours and conduct dangerous job tasks, sexual harassment lowers job satisfaction and negatively impacts mission, safety, and results. In spite of these negative consequences, a variety of surveys and studies have demonstrated high levels of sexual harassment in police departments around the world:
- A survey study among serving policewomen from 35 countries revealed that 77% experienced sexual harassment from colleagues
- In a study involving a large midwestern police department, every woman interviewed was subjected to verbal harassment
- In a 2008 survey, more than half of female officers had experienced sexual harassment in police departments in Australia, Great Britain, and the US
This course is designed to educate officers on sexual harassment and offer guidance on how to identify, investigate, and eliminate harassment in their departments. The course uses data from the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), police-specific court cases, and real events from departments around the country to define inappropriate behaviors, assess department liability, and examine how sexual harassment impacts the law enforcement community. By the end of the course, students will be able to:
- Define sexual harassment
- Identify different types of sexual harassment
- Analyze situations and determine the existence of harassment
- List practical examples of verbal, non-verbal, and physical harassment
- Identify organizational factors that impact the amount, type, and severity of sexual harassment
- Define essential sexual harassment policy components
- Employ supervision, discipline, and training strategies
- Understand and articulate issues impacting department liability
- Appropriately address sexual harassment complaints
This course is designed for individuals who are working in a law enforcement or security position and is based on guidance identified by the EEOC and the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing. If you are interested in offering this course to your entire department, please contact us to discuss reduced rate and customization options.
