What does the term "sexual harassment" encompass?

The term "sexual harassment" specifically encompasses unwelcome sexual advances and jokes. This definition highlights behaviors that create a hostile or intimidating environment for individuals based on their sex or gender. It is focused on interactions that can include inappropriate comments, gestures, or physical contact that are of a sexual nature and are uninvited.

Understanding the depth of sexual harassment is crucial in professional settings, as it violates individuals' rights to work in an environment free from such unwelcome behaviors. The core aspect of sexual harassment is the lack of consent from the recipient, making it essential to recognize that even jokes or light-hearted comments can contribute to a toxic atmosphere if they are unwelcome.

While the other options touch on broader issues related to discrimination and equal opportunity, they do not directly address the specific actions and behaviors that constitute sexual harassment. Professional advancement issues and workplace discrimination pertain to systemic inequality or favoritism in promotions and treatment, and equal opportunity violations focus on unfair practices against certain groups, but none of these terms capture the unique nature of sexual advances and jokes that are unwelcome and thereby define sexual harassment.