Research shows that organizations with large power differentials are more likely to be associated with high rates of sexual harassment than organizations with smaller power differentials, and power differentials are a key feature of the structure of higher education. Research also reveals that when power differentials are abused and sexual harassment occurs, the consequences can be more negative than harassment coming from an individual with equal or less power, and those affected by harassment can experience a greater level of harm.
This issue paper from the Remediation Working Group of the Action Collaborative on Preventing Sexual Harassment in Higher Education focuses on mitigating the negative aspects of power differentials - those that can take the form of sexual harassment or sexually harassing behavior toward individuals and groups. Following an overview of power differentials in higher education, the paper describes the importance of understanding power differentials through an intersectional and equity lens. It then defines eight types of power differentials that frequently occur within academia. Recognizing that power differentials are engrained in society, the goal of this paper is to compel readers to advocate for and develop policies, practices, and innovative strategies by which institutions can acknowledge and remediate the misuse of power differentials and develop supportive structures and systems for those who experience sexual harassment.
28 pages
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8.5 x 11
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ISBN Ebook: 0-309-69081-1
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17226/26631
Kleinman, D. L. and J. M. Thomas (Eds.). 2023. Preventing Sexual Harassment and Reducing Harm by Addressing Abuses of Power in Higher Education Institutions: Issue Paper. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press.
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