Harassment or humor?: Ambiguity and uncertainty in potential incidents of sexual harassment within organizations
Abstract
Some discursive incidents can be interpreted as either humorous or sexually harassing. Previous research has acknowledged sexually harassing situations to be ambiguous in nature, leading to questions of intent and outcome (Cohen & Gutek, 1985; Keyton & Menzie, 2007). Humorous incidents have also been acknowledged to be uncertain in nature (Bippus, 2003; Graham, Papa & Brooks, 1992), in similar capacities as potentially sexually harassing messages. Each adds another layer of complication to an interaction. This study uses both quantitative and qualitative methods to understand both generalized and individual approaches to and interpretations of sexually harassing or humorous situations. Implications for both research and practice are discussed.
Degree
M.A.
Advisors
Harrison, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Womens studies|Communication|Gender studies
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