Sexual Behavior at Work: You Know You like It

It might come as no surprise that men tend to enjoy sexual behavior such as sexual jokes, innuendo, discussions of sexual matters or flirtation at work more than women. However, a recent study conducted by researchers from University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management and the University of British Columbia's Sauder School of Management, concluded that while some employees did not mind or even enjoyed sexual behavior in the workplace; sexual behavior was generally associated with negative work-related and psychological outcomes.

The researchers from University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management and the University of British Columbia's Sauder School of Management found that sexual behavior in the workplace such as sexual jokes, innuendo, discussions of sexual matters or flirtation, caused even employees who enjoyed the behavior to withdraw from work, feel less valued and report depressive symptoms.

The study, authored by researchers from University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management and the University of British Columbia's Sauder School of Management, is the first to explore the possibility that Sexual behavior in the workplace such as sexual jokes, innuendo, discussions of sexual matters or flirtation might have a positive on the office environment, such as enjoyment and social bonding.

"We approached the study with an open mind," said Prof. Jennifer Berdahl of the Rotman School, who co-authored the study with Prof. Karl Aquino pf the Sauder School. "We thought, 'Maybe these behaviours are a positive thing for employees who enjoy them.' And then we found that they weren't."

While not the original intention of the study, the researchers from University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management and the University of British Columbia's Sauder School of Management have refuted those who have argued that sexual behavior at work is typically harmless or even good because it creates a lively and fun work environment.

By documenting the negative effects of sexual behavior even for those who believe they enjoy it, the study reinforces the court rulings which have deemed sexual behavior a potential form of sex discrimination.

Prof. Berdahl suggests avoiding engaging in sexual behaviour while on the job. "In our culture, sexuality has these connotations of domination, subordinance and vulnerability," she said, in a recent interview. "Often a dominating behaviour is a way of making someone squirmy. Why bring this into the workplace?"

In the end, even if they laugh, blush, or smile damage is being done.

Sexual Behavior at Work: Fun or Folly?, www.rotman.utoronto.ca