The challenges of sexual harassment reduction policies

A key finding from the experiments was that policy training activates gender stereotypes and backlash against women, and this effect is strongest among men committed to traditional gender norms. The experiments also revealed that policy training could disempower women by emphasizing their vulnerability, and some women viewed taking sexual harassment training seriously as a sign of weakness. 

Crucial new insights that move beyond the very important need to reduce sexual harassament to assess how policies and training are working. Tinkler's work will help point the way to improving these methods as we continue to make strides toward more healthy work environments for all.

Image: Photo of associate professor Justine Tinkler by Dorothy Kozlowski