National Study Finds Widespread Sexual Harassment of Students in Grades 7 to 12

Nearly half of students in grades seven-12 reported experiencing sexual harassment in the 2010-11 school year, according to a survey of a nationally representative group of 1,965 students. Of those harassed, 87 percent experienced negative effects such as absenteeism, poor sleep, and stomachaches.

“It’s pervasive, and almost a normal part of the school day,” said study co-author Catherine Hill, research director of the nonprofit American Association of University Women, which published the report, “Hostile Hallways: Bullying, Teasing, and Sexual Harassment in School.”

Overall, 48 percent said they experienced harassment, like unwelcome comments or jokes, inappropriate touching or sexual intimidation. Forty-four percent said they were harassed “in person,” while 30 percent reported online harassment.

More girls said they were harassed than boys (56 percent vs. 40 percent), with 52 percent reporting “in person” harassment and 36 percent online. Of boys, 35 percent reported “in person” harassment and 24 percent online.

The most common experience was unwelcome sexual comments, gestures or jokes (girls 46 percent, boys 22 percent). Unwelcome touching or forced sexual activity was reported by 13 percent and 3.5 percent of girls, respectively, and 3 percent and 0.2 percent of boys. About 18 percent of both boys and girls reported being called gay or lesbian in a negative way.

Experienced as “worst” for boys was being called gay, whereas for girls it was “unwelcome sexual comments, jokes or gestures to you or about you.”

Half of those harassed did nothing. Just 9 percent reported it to an adult at school, and 27 percent discussed it with a family member (32 percent of girls, 20 percent of boys).

Some schools have found that communicating with students about responding to sexual harassment reduced the problem, said report co-author Holly Kearl.

To view the report, visit: http://www.aauw.org/learn/research/upload/hostilehallways.pdf.

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