How Organizational Culture Reinforces Tolerance of Sexual Harassment Cover Image

Ako organizačná kultúra posilňuje toleranciu voči sexuálnemu obťažovaniu
How Organizational Culture Reinforces Tolerance of Sexual Harassment

Author(s): Veronika Valkovičová, Slávka Karkošková
Subject(s): Gender Studies, Public Administration, Sociology, Human Resources in Economy, Business Ethics, Socio-Economic Research
Published by: SAV - Slovenská akadémia vied - Ústav etnológie a sociálnej antropológie Slovenskej akadémie vied
Keywords: sexual harassment; organizational culture; workplace; organizational tolerance

Summary/Abstract: Current literature on preventing workplace sexual harassment identifies organizational culture as a key factor influencing harassment's presence and persistence. This study uses a reflective thematic analysis of 15 research interviews with women in Slovakia who experienced sexual harassment. Four dominant themes emerged: exercise of formal and informal authority; sexuality in organizational humor and familiarity; the public nature of harassment; and the unavailability of those tasked with addressing harassment. The study concludes that organizational culture is a communicative practice where tolerance is continually reinforced, highlighting the need to focus on everyday communication practices for effective organizational change.

  • Issue Year: 73/2025
  • Issue No: 1
  • Page Range: 93-113
  • Page Count: 21
  • Language: Slovak
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