The (un)reasonableness of reporting: antecedents and consequences of reporting sexual harassment

J Appl Psychol. 2002 Apr;87(2):230-42. doi: 10.1037/0021-9010.87.2.230.

Abstract

This study places the reporting of sexual harassment within an integrated model of the sexual harassment process. Two structural models were developed and tested in a sample (N = 6,417) of male and female military personnel. The 1st model identifies determinants and effects of reporting; reporting did not improve--and at times worsened--job, psychological, and health outcomes. The authors argue that organizational responses to reports (i.e., organizational remedies, organizational minimization, and retaliation) as well as procedural satisfaction can account for these negative effects. The 2nd model examines these mediating mechanisms; results suggest that these mediators, and not reporting itself, are the source of the negative effects of reporting. Organizational and legal implications of these findings are discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological
  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Attitude to Health
  • Female
  • Gender Identity
  • Humans
  • Job Satisfaction
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Military Personnel / legislation & jurisprudence*
  • Military Personnel / psychology
  • Organizational Culture*
  • Sexual Harassment / legislation & jurisprudence*
  • Sexual Harassment / prevention & control
  • Sexual Harassment / psychology
  • Social Support*
  • United States