An overview of the literature on antecedents, perceptions and behavioural consequences of sexual harassment.

The detrimental effects of sexual harassment have been documented in the literature over

the past 35 years, and recognized as a serious problem for all working women. In this paper, we review the

existing research surrounding the phenomenon of sexual harassment, focusing upon the factors that may

facilitate its occurrence.We also provide an overview of the differences in perceptions of what constitutes

sexual harassment according to gender, organizational power and context. The negative impact of sexual

harassment on its victims is also reviewed. Finally, the relatively new research on victims’ responses to

sexual harassment experiences and the link between this work and the stress and coping literature is

recognized. Several suggestions are made for future research, policy making and treatment avenues.