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QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS ABOUT SEXUAL HARASSMENT

What Is Sexual Harassment?

Sexual harassment is any behavior of a sexual nature that:

• Is unwanted and not liked

• Occurs on a frequent basis

Sexual harassment can be:

• Touching, grabbing, "pantsing"

• Teasing, sexual jokes, rumors

• Telephone calls, notes, letters, email

• Sexual invitations

What If We're Just Flirting?

Flirting and sexual harassment are not the same.  There are BIG differences between the two.

• Flirting is welcome attention

• Flirting can make you feel flattered and attractive

• Flirting can go both ways

• Sexual harassment is not wanted

• Sexual harassment makes you feel put down and ugly

• Sexual harassment is one-sided

Why Do Kids Do It?

Students sexually harass because:

• Of peer pressure

• They think it's funny

• They think everyone does it

• They don't know it's inappropriate

What's The Big Deal?

Sexual harassment isn't just embarrassing; it can hurt a student's:

• Health

• Self-esteem

• Grades

The Right To Feel Safe At School

EVERY STUDENT has the right to feel safe at school.  If someone is harassing you and you don't feel comfortable telling them to stop, make sure you tell a teacher, counselor, or principal immediately.  Your parents or other trusted adults can also help you.  DON'T GIVE UP!