How do students perceive sexual harassment? An investigation on the University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg campus

Abstract

In this article the authors focus on definitions, incidence, perceptions and reactions to sexual harassment as analysed in various tertiary education institutions, including selected overseas universities, some South African universities, and most specifically in depth at the University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg (UNP). Data were obtained from 1082 students on the UNP campus who responded to a questionnaire. It was found that sexual harassment in varying degrees of severity is widespread on the UNP campus and that gender and cultural differences played a part in the perception of sexual harassment and its incidence. It was also found that students are dissatisfied with the preventive actions of authorities and are ready themselves to take part in action for curbing sexual harassment on campus. The relevance of this study has been clearly demonstrated by making authorities and students aware of, for instance, circumstances conducive to sexual harassment (e.g. Rag Week, parties, weekends), and the impact of the type of accommodation on the students' experience of sexual harassment (e.g. ‘digs’ compared to parents or university residences). Based on the findings a number of recommendations for actions are made.