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Abstract

Opening with examples from communication and university settings, this article examines sexual harassment as an ethical problem in academic life. It reviews studies of harassment incidence, definitions, perceived seriousness, and consequences, while emphasizing power differences between faculty and students, possible manipulation of academic rewards, and harms to confidence, mentoring, evaluation, and institutional trust. The article distinguishes personal, institutional, and legal concerns, then focuses on ethical responsibilities that remain even when conduct is not formally prosecuted. It also discusses student use of sexuality, harassment of men, and harassment of faculty women. The article concludes with personal conduct guidelines for instructors, including explicit evaluation criteria, avoidance of favoritism, awareness of power, attention to interpersonal behavior, and support for institutional policies.

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