STOP – Sexual jokes

Although having a sense of humor is generally viewed as a positive trait, sexual jokes in the workplace are inappropriate and may constitute sexual harassment.  Sexual jokes in the workplace may be spoken or written or in the form of images that are sexual and offensive.

Sexual jokes can be inappropriate and can make people feel uncomfortable or harassed. If you are in a situation where someone is making sexual jokes, here are some steps you can take to address it:

1. Communicate your discomfort: Let the person know that their jokes are making you uncomfortable. You can do this by calmly and directly saying something like, “I don’t find that joke funny, and I would appreciate it if you didn’t make those kinds of comments around me.”
2. Set boundaries: If you feel uncomfortable with a certain topic or type of joke, let the person know and set clear boundaries. You have the right to express your feelings and expectations for what is acceptable behavior.
3. Report the behavior: If the sexual jokes continue despite your requests to stop, it may be necessary to report the behavior to a supervisor or authority figure. Many workplaces and institutions have policies in place to address this type of behavior.
4. Seek support: If you feel uncomfortable or upset by the jokes, seek support from a trusted friend or counselor. Talking about your experience can help you process your emotions and come up with a plan to address the situation.

Remember, sexual jokes can be a form of harassment and it is important to take action to address the behavior. By speaking up and setting boundaries, you can help create a safer and more respectful environment for everyone.