What is the difference between sexual harassment and romantic advances?
Sexual harassment and romantic advances are two very different things. Sexual harassment is a form of discrimination and is considered unlawful workplace behavior. It includes unwelcome advances, requests for sexual favors, inappropriate physical contact, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. It creates a hostile or uncomfortable work environment for the victim. Romantic advances, on the other hand, are not considered to be unlawful in the workplace. This includes romantic gestures, such as compliments, flirting, and even asking someone out on a date. Romantic advances can be welcome or unwelcome, but as long as they are not inappropriate, they are not considered to be sexual harassment. The key distinction between sexual harassment and romantic advances is that sexual harassment is unwanted, often threatens the victim with adverse consequences, and creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment. Romantic advances, on the other hand, are generally welcome or consensual and are not considered to be threatening or offensive. In the state of Virginia, it is illegal for employers to harass or discriminate against employees based on sex or gender. If an employee feels they have been sexually harassed, they can report the incident to their employer, the Equal Opportunity Employment Commission, or a lawyer for further action.
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