Gender and Society PDF

**What is Gender and Society?** Gender and Society is a course that examines the relationship between gender and various aspects of society. It analyzes how gender, as a social construct, shapes and is shaped by societal institutions, norms, and interactions. **SEX, SEXUALITY AND GENDER** When fi...

**What is Gender and Society?** Gender and Society is a course that examines the relationship between gender and various aspects of society. It analyzes how gender, as a social construct, shapes and is shaped by societal institutions, norms, and interactions. **SEX, SEXUALITY AND GENDER** When filling out a document such as a job application or school registration form you are often asked to provide your name, address, phone number, birth date, and sex or gender. But have you ever been asked to provide your sex *and* your gender? As with most people, it may not have occurred to you that sex and gender are not the same. However, sociologists and most other social scientists view sex and gender as conceptually distinct. **Sex** refers to physical or physiological differences between males and females, including both primary sex characteristics (the reproductive system) and secondary characteristics such as height and muscularity. **Gender** is a term that refers to social or cultural distinctions and roles associated with being male or female. **Gender identity** is the extent to which one identifies as being either masculine or feminine (Diamond, 2002). As gender is such a primary dimension of identity, socialization, institutional participation, and life chances, sociologists refer to it as a *core status.* The experience of transgender people also demonstrates that a person's sex, as determined by their biology, does not always correspond with their gender. Therefore, the terms *sex* and *gender* are not interchangeable. A baby boy who is born with male genitalia will be identified as male. As he grows, however, he may identify with the feminine aspects of his culture. Since the term *sex* refers to biological or physical distinctions, characteristics of sex will not vary significantly between different human societies. For example, it is physiologically normal for persons of the female sex, regardless of culture, to eventually menstruate and develop breasts that can lactate. The signs and characteristics of gender, on the other hand, may vary greatly between different societies as Margaret Mead's research noted. For example, in American culture, it is considered feminine (or a trait of the female gender) to wear a dress or skirt. However, in many Middle Eastern, Asian, and African cultures, dresses or skirts (often referred to as sarongs, robes, or gowns) can be considered masculine. The kilt worn by a Scottish male does not make him appear feminine in his culture. **Sexuality **refers to a person's capacity for sexual feelings and their emotional and sexual attraction to a particular sex (male or female). Sexuality or sexual orientation is typically divided into four categories: *heterosexuality*, the attraction to individuals of the opposite sex; *homosexuality*, the attraction to individuals of one's own sex; *bisexuality*, the attraction to individuals of either sex; and *asexuality*, no attraction to either sex. Heterosexuals and homosexuals may also be referred to informally as "straight" and "gay," respectively. North America is a heteronormative society, meaning it supports heterosexuality as the norm, (referred to as **heteronormativity**). Consider that homosexuals are often asked, "When did you know you were gay?" but heterosexuals are rarely asked, "When did you know that you were straight?" (Ryle, 2011). The Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States (SIECUS) defines human sexuality as encompassing the sexual knowledge, belief, attitudes, values, and behaviors of individuals. Its various dimensions include the anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry of the sexual response system; identity, orientation, roles, and personality; and thoughts, feelings, and relationships. The expression of sexuality is influenced by ethical, spiritual, cultural, and moral concerns (SIECUS, 2012) The Alberta Society for the Promotion of Sexual Health (ASPSH) indicates that sexuality means many things: feelings about ourselves, roles we play in society, and reproduction. It is not limited to how **LEGAL BASIS FOR THE STUDY OF GENDER AND SOCIETY** 1. **CHED Memorandum No. 1, series of 2015**, serves as a crucial legal framework for the study of Gender and Society in the Philippines. This memorandum was issued by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to establish policies and guidelines that promote gender equality and gender responsiveness in higher education institutions across the country. **Objective:** The primary aim of this memorandum is to mainstream gender in all higher education institutions, ensuring that gender perspectives are integrated into curricula and institutional practices. This initiative is part of a broader effort to address gender disparities and promote social justice within educational settings. **Definitions:** The memorandum provides essential definitions related to gender, including: - Gender: Refers to the roles and responsibilities assigned to men and women by society, which can change over time and vary across cultures. - Gender Equality: Emphasizes the equal rights and opportunities for all genders, advocating for conditions that enable individuals to realize their full potential. **Implementation Guidelines:** The memorandum outlines specific guidelines for higher education institutions to follow, including: - Developing gender-sensitive curricula. - Conducting training programs on gender awareness for faculty and staff. - Establishing Gender and Development (GAD) focal points within institutions to oversee the implementation of gender policies. 2. **CEDAW 1981.** The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), adopted by the United Nations in 1979 and effective from September 3, 1981, serves as a critical international legal framework for promoting gender equality and addressing discrimination against women. CEDAW is often referred to as the \"International Bill of Rights for Women\" and is unique in its comprehensive approach to women\'s rights across various spheres of life, including civil, political, economic, social, and cultural domains. The Philippines signed the CEDAW on 15 July 1980 and ratified it on 5 August 1981, the first ASEAN country to do so. As of May 2015, the Convention has been ratified by [189 states](https://www.un.org/womenwatch/daw/cedaw/states.htm). **Key Principles** - **Non-Discrimination:** CEDAW defines discrimination against women as any distinction, exclusion, or restriction based on sex that impairs or nullifies women\'s recognition, enjoyment, or exercise of human rights on an equal basis with men. This definition encompasses both direct and indirect forms of discrimination. - **State Obligation:** States that ratify CEDAW are legally bound to take appropriate measures to eliminate discrimination against women. This obligation extends beyond government actions to include preventing discrimination perpetrated by private individuals and organizations. The state must actively promote gender equality in both public and private spheres. - **Substantive Equality:** CEDAW emphasizes the importance of achieving substantive equality rather than merely formal equality. This means that equality should be measured by actual outcomes in women\'s lives rather than just equal opportunities or treatment under the law. The convention encourages states to implement temporary special measures to accelerate the achievement of de facto equality. **Provisions Addressing Gender Inequality** CEDAW encompasses several articles that outline specific obligations for states: - Article 2: Mandates states to eliminate discrimination through legislation and other measures. - Article 5: Calls for modification of social and cultural patterns that perpetuate gender stereotypes and inequalities. - Article 16: Addresses discrimination in marriage and family life, recognizing these areas as critical for achieving gender equality 3. **1987 Constitution, Art II., Sec. 14** states, \"The State recognizes the role of women in nation-building, and shall ensure the fundamental equality before the law of women and men.\" This provision enshrines the principle of gender equality in the Philippine legal system. It acknowledges the important contributions of women to the country\'s development and mandates the State to guarantee equal rights and opportunities for both women and men. The recognition of women\'s role in nation-building and the commitment to gender equality in the Constitution serve as the foundation for studying the complex interplay between gender and various aspects of Philippine society. This includes examining: - The historical and contemporary experiences of women and men in shaping the nation - The socio-cultural norms, attitudes, and practices that influence gender relations - The legal frameworks and policies that promote or hinder gender equality - The challenges and opportunities faced by individuals of different genders in various spheres such as education, employment, politics, and family life 4. **RA 7192 and IRR (1992)** Republic Act No. 7192, known as the Women in Development and Nation-Building Act, was enacted in 1992 in the Philippines to promote gender equality and empower women within the national development framework. This legislation emphasizes the critical role of women in various sectors and aims to ensure their active participation in development programs. **Key Provisions** - Equality Before the Law: RA 7192 establishes that women and men have equal rights under the law, particularly in areas such as contracts, loans, and access to government programs. - Participation in Development Programs: The law mandates that women and women\'s organizations must actively participate in the planning, implementation, management, monitoring, and evaluation of development projects. - Data Collection: It requires the collection of sex-disaggregated data to assess women\'s participation in various activities and ensure equitable access to resources. - Resource Mobilization: The Act encourages mobilizing both domestic and external resources to support gender-responsive programs at national and local levels. - Capacity Building: The law also promotes training for government officials to enhance their understanding of gender issues and improve implementation strategies. - **Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR)** The IRR of RA 7192 outlines specific guidelines for executing its provisions effectively: - **Gender-Responsive Planning:** The IRR emphasizes integrating gender considerations into all aspects of development planning. This includes revising existing frameworks to accommodate gender-responsive budgeting at local government units (LGUs). - **Monitoring Mechanisms:** It establishes mechanisms for monitoring compliance with gender mandates across government agencies, ensuring that gender concerns are prioritized in development agendas. - **Training Programs:** The IRR mandates that government personnel undergo gender sensitization training to better understand and implement gender-responsive policies 5. **Beijing Platform for Action (1995)** adopted during the Fourth World Conference on Women in September 1995, serves as a crucial legal and policy framework for advancing gender equality and the empowerment of women globally. This landmark document was unanimously endorsed by 189 countries and is recognized as one of the most comprehensive agendas for women\'s rights. **Key Aspects** Comprehensive Frameworks The Platform outlines 12 critical areas of concern where urgent action is needed to achieve gender equality. These areas include: 1. 2. Women and Poverty 3. Education and Training of Women 4. Women and Health 5. Violence Against Women 6. Women and Armed Conflict 7. Women and the Economy 8. Women in Power and Decision-Making 9. Institutional Mechanisms for the Advancement of Women 10. Human Rights of Women 11. Women and Media 12. Women and the Environment 13. The Girl Child 6. **RA 9710-Magna Carta for Women (2009)** The Magna Carta of Women (RA 9710), enacted on August 14, 2009, is a landmark legislation in the Philippines aimed at promoting and protecting the rights of women, particularly those from marginalized sectors. This comprehensive law serves as a local embodiment of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), establishing a framework for gender equality and women\'s empowerment. **The primary objectives include:** - Eliminating discrimination against women in all forms. - Promoting women\'s rights in various sectors including employment, education, and health. - Ensuring equal participation of women in decision-making processes at all levels. **Key Provisions** The Magna Carta encompasses several salient features aimed at fostering gender equality: 1. Employment Rights: It mandates non-discrimination in employment practices, ensuring women have equal access to promotions and benefits as their male counterparts. 2. Health Benefits: Women are entitled to leave benefits for surgeries related to gynecological disorders. 3. Education and Training: The law prohibits discriminatory practices in educational institutions, ensuring that women can pursue education without prejudice related to marital status or pregnancy. 4. Representation: The state is required to implement temporary special measures to enhance women\'s participation in governance and decision-making processes. 5. Protection from Violence: It establishes mechanisms for protecting women from gender-based violence, including provisions for training government personnel on gender sensitivity and creating support systems at the community level. **PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SEX CHARACTERISTICS** **Primary sex characteristics** are the anatomical structures directly involved in sexual reproduction. These characteristics are present at birth and mature during puberty under the influence of sex hormones. **Male Primary Sex Characteristics** - Testes: The male gonads responsible for the production of sperm and testosterone. - Penis: The external organ used for sexual intercourse and the expulsion of urine. - Scrotum: The pouch that contains the testes, regulating their temperature for optimal sperm production. - Seminal Vesicles: Glands that produce a significant portion of the fluid that becomes semen. - Prostate Gland: Contributes additional fluid to semen, aiding in sperm mobility. During puberty, males experience growth in these organs, leading to increased sperm production and other physiological changes such as the enlargement of the penis and testes. **Female Primary Sex Characteristics** - Ovaries: The female gonads that produce eggs (ova) and hormones like estrogen and progesterone. - Uterus: The organ where a fertilized egg can develop into a fetus. - Vagina: The canal that connects the external genitals to the uterus, serving as the birth canal during delivery. - Fallopian Tubes: Tubes through which eggs travel from the ovaries to the uterus; fertilization typically occurs here. - Bartholin\'s Glands: Glands that secrete fluid to lubricate the vagina. In females, primary sex characteristics also grow and mature during puberty, leading to menstruation and ovulation cycles. **Developmental Aspects** Both male and female primary sex characteristics undergo significant changes during puberty, which typically occurs between ages 10 to 14 for girls and 11 to 15 for boys. This development is crucial for reproductive capability as it marks the transition from childhood to sexual maturity **Secondary Characteristics (Height, Bone Structures, etc.)** Secondary sex characteristics are physical traits that emerge during puberty and serve to distinguish males from females. Unlike primary sex characteristics, which are present at birth, secondary characteristics develop as individuals mature sexually. These traits are influenced by hormonal changes and can significantly impact physical appearance, including height and bone structure. **Secondary Sex Characteristics in Males** - Height: Males typically experience a growth spurt during puberty, often resulting in greater average height compared to females. - Bone Structure: - Wider Shoulders: Males generally develop broader shoulders, contributing to a more angular physique. - Narrower Hips: This contrasts with females, who develop wider hips for childbearing. - Muscle Mass: Increased testosterone levels lead to greater muscle development and overall strength. - Body Hair: Development of facial hair (beards), chest hair, and coarser body hair. - Voice Changes: The larynx grows larger, resulting in a deeper voice. **Secondary Sex Characteristics in Females** - Height: Females usually have a shorter stature compared to males, though this can vary widely. - Bone Structure: - Wider Hips: Females develop wider hips to facilitate childbirth. - Rounded Features: Softer facial features and a generally more rounded body shape. - Breast Development: Increased fat deposition leads to the development of breasts during puberty. - Body Fat Distribution: Higher overall body fat percentage compared to males, with fat distributed more around the hips and thighs. - Body Hair: Growth of pubic hair and underarm hair, typically finer than male body hair. **REPRODUCTIVE ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES** **Reproductive Roles** The reproductive system plays a crucial role in ensuring the survival of the species. Both male and female reproductive systems work together to produce offspring. The primary functions of the reproductive system include: 1. Producing gametes: The male gonads (testes) produce sperm cells, while the female gonads (ovaries) produce egg cells. 2. Transporting and sustaining gametes: The male reproductive tract (epididymis, vas deferens, and urethra) transports and stores sperm, while the female reproductive tract (fallopian tubes, uterus, and vagina) transports and sustains the egg and developing embryo. 3. Nurturing the developing offspring: The uterus provides a safe and nurturing environment for the fetus to develop during pregnancy. 4. Producing hormones: The gonads and other endocrine glands produce hormones that regulate the development and function of the reproductive system. **Male Reproductive Roles** 1. Producing sperm: The testes produce sperm cells through a process called spermatogenesis. 2. Delivering sperm: The male reproductive tract, including the penis, delivers sperm during sexual intercourse. 3. Providing genetic material: The sperm cell carries the male\'s genetic information to the egg during fertilization. **Female Reproductive Roles** 1. Producing eggs: The ovaries release mature eggs during ovulation, which is part of the menstrual cycle. 2. Providing a nurturing environment: The uterus prepares for implantation of the fertilized egg and supports the developing fetus during pregnancy. 3. Delivering the baby: The vagina and cervix expand during childbirth to allow the baby to pass through the birth canal. 4. Providing nourishment: The breasts produce milk to nourish the newborn baby during breastfeeding. **Reproductive Responsibilities** Reproductive responsibilities encompass the roles and tasks associated with managing reproduction, fertility, and child-rearing. These responsibilities are often shaped by cultural norms, gender roles, and the dynamics of individual relationships. Understanding these responsibilities is crucial for promoting equitable partnerships in reproductive health and family planning. **Shared Responsibilities** - Contraception: Both partners share the responsibility of ensuring effective contraception to prevent unintended pregnancies. This includes discussing options, using methods correctly, and managing related health care costs. - Pregnancy Planning: Couples often negotiate the timing of pregnancy, which involves discussions about financial readiness, emotional preparedness, and career considerations. Both partners should ideally participate in these discussions to ensure mutual agreement and support. - Emotional Support: During pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting, emotional support is critical. Partners are expected to provide companionship during significant events such as labor and delivery, as well as during decisions regarding abortion or family planning. **Gender-Specific Responsibilities** Women: 1. Childbearing: Women typically bear the primary responsibility for pregnancy and childbirth. This includes managing physical health during pregnancy and postpartum recovery. 2. Childcare: Traditionally, women have been expected to take on the majority of childcare duties, including nurturing and educating children. 3. Household Management: Women often handle domestic tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and managing household finances alongside their reproductive roles. Men: 1. Financial Support: Men are often seen as the primary breadwinners, responsible for providing financial stability for the family. 2. Involvement in Childcare: While traditionally less involved in direct childcare tasks, there is a growing expectation for men to participate actively in parenting and household responsibilities. 3. Supportive Roles: Men are increasingly recognized for their role in providing emotional support during pregnancy and beyond, challenging traditional norms that limit their involvement in reproductive responsibilities. **WHAT IS SEXUALITY?** **Sexuality **refers to a person's capacity for sexual feelings and their emotional and sexual attraction to a particular sex (male or female). Sexuality or sexual orientation is typically divided into four categories: *heterosexuality*, the attraction to individuals of the opposite sex; *homosexuality*, the attraction to individuals of one's own sex; *bisexuality*, the attraction to individuals of either sex; and *asexuality*, no attraction to either sex. **Dimensions of Human Sexuality** The Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States (SIECUS) defines as the encompassing knowledge, belief, attitudes, values, and behaviors of individuals. The expression of sexuality is influenced by ethical, spiritual, cultural, and moral concerns (SIECUS, 2012) The Alberta Society for the Promotion of Sexual Health (ASPSH) indicates that sexuality means many things: feelings about ourselves, roles we play in society, and reproduction. It is not limited to how we behave sexually. It is the total of our physical, emotional, and spiritual responses, thoughts, and feelings. Sexuality is more about who we are than about what we do (ASPSH, 2011) Human Sexuality is a part of your total personality. It involves the interrelationship of biological, psychological and sociocultural dimensions: - **BIOLOGICAL DIMENSION**: It involves our physical appearance, especially the development of physical sexual characteristics; our responses to sexual stimulation; our ability to reproduce or to control fertility; **our growth and development in general.** - **PSYCHOLOGICAL DIMENSION:** Learned aspect of sexuality. Our attitudes and feelings ourselves and other. From the time we are born, we get signals from all around us **how to think and act.** We learn that some words are "wrong" or "dirty" and that certain parts of our body are "unmentionable." We even learn to be careful about what conversational topic we enter into with certain people. - **SOCIOCULTURAL DIMENSIONS:** The sum of the cultural and social influences that affect our thoughts and action. Tiefer (1995) promotes the idea of **socio constructionism,** which proposes that sexual identities and experiences are acquired from and influenced and modified by an ever-changing social environment. Indeed, we are surrounded by social influences on our sexuality. These includes -- religion, multiculturalism, socioeconomic status, and ethics. - Religious Influences -- religious and spiritual beliefs influence feelings about morality, sexual behavior, premarital sexual behavior, adultery, divorce, contraception, abortion and masturbation - Multiculturalism Influences -- Your ability to respect your sexual partner's cultural beliefs and feelings will result in a higher level of satisfaction for both of you. A multicultural example deals with the topic of gendercide. Some cultures, women are aborted, killed and neglected to death. In China and norther India, 120 males are born for every 100 females. The destruction of baby girls is a product of three forces: the ancient preference for sons, a modern desire for smaller families, and ultrasound scanning and other technologies that identify the gender of a fetus. Unborn daughters are often sacrificed in pursuit of a son (Gendercide, March 6, 2010) - Socioeconomic Influences -- Socioeconomic status and education also influence sexual attitudes and behaviors. - The socioeconomic status influences more that sexual activities. The poor have less access to proper health care, birth control, care during pregnancy. Day care for children, and positive sexual role. - Ethical influences -- the ethics of sexuality involves questioning the way we treat ourselves and other people. The following are examples of sexually oriented ethical dilemmas: - Should I or should not participate in a certain sexual behavior? - Is it ethical to use a prostitution? - Is it ethical not to disclose my full sexual history to a new partner? - Is it ethical to engage in sexual behaviors with a person who is underage? - Is it ethical to use a position of power to obtain sexual partners? **TYPES OF SEXUALITY** **ASEXUAL** - In the initialism LGBTQIAP+, the A stands for asexual spectrum, or a-spec. - An asexual person has little or no interest in sexual contact with other people. However, they may engage in sexual activity alone or with a partner. - They may or may not feel romantic attraction. - Asexual people have the same emotional needs as everyone else. Most will desire and form emotionally intimate relationships with other people. Asexual people may be attracted to the same sex or other sexes. - Asexuality is not the same as celibacy or abstinence, both of which mean someone experiences sexual attraction but chooses not to act on it. - If someone is celibate or abstains from sex, this means they have taken a conscious decision to not take part in sexual activity despite experiencing sexual attraction. - Some orientations that exist within the asexuality spectrum include: - **Sex-averse: **This is when a person is averse to or entirely disinterested in sex and sexual behavior. - **Sex-favorable:** This is when a person has positive feelings toward sex in some situations. - **Sex-indifferent:** This refers to those who feel neutral about sex and sexual behavior. - **Sex-repulsed: **This refers to those who are repulsed by sex and sexual behavior. - **Cupiosexual:** If someone identifies as cupiosexual, they do not experience sexual attraction but still desire to engage in sexual behavior or have a sexual relationship. - **Libidoist asexual: **This term refers to those who identify as asexual but experience sexual feelings that they can satisfy with masturbation or self-stimulation. - **Graysexual:** Those who are graysexual experience sexual attraction either infrequently or not very intensely. - **Grayromantic:** People who identify as grayromantic may experience romantic attraction either rarely or not very strongly. **BISEXUAL** - This term refers to someone who is sexually and/or emotionally attracted to more than one gender/multiple gender. - Those who identify as bisexual feel a sexual and/or romantic attraction to people of a different gender as well as their own.  - A bisexual person may be in a long-term same-sex or heterosexual relationship, or they may alternate between the two. - The [Bisexual Manifesto](https://www.jstor.org/stable/10.14321/qed.2.1.0022), first published in a periodical called "Anything That Moves" in 1990, pointed out that bisexual people can be attracted to more than two genders: "Bisexuality is a whole, fluid identity. Do not assume that bisexuality is binary or duogamous in nature: that we have 'two' sides or that we must be involved simultaneously with both genders to be fulfilled human beings. In fact, don't assume that there are only two genders." **PANSEXUAL** - Often referred to as "Pan" (All), this is a term used to describe a person who is sexually, romantically, and/or emotionally attracted to people regardless of their sex or gender identity. - Pansexual people aren't attracted to all people. It simply means that they find themselves attracted to people of all sorts of gender categories. \*\*\*\*So bisexual means attracted to multiple genders, and pansexual means attracted to all genders. These are different because "multiple" isn't the same thing as "all." - Example: One friend might say, "Actually, I like more than one color!" Another friend might say, "I like all colors." (This is because "all colors" is, by definition, more than one. However, "more than one" isn't technically all.) **HETEROSEXUALITY** - People who are heterosexual, or "straight," typically feel sexual and romantic attraction toward people who are of a gender different than their own **HOMOSEXUALITY** - It comes from the Greek word homos, meaning "the same." - Homosexuality is a term describing those who are emotionally and physically attracted to people of the same gender. - The most common synonym is "gay" or "[lesbian](https://www.webmd.com/women/lesbian-health#1)." **WHAT IS SEXUAL HARASSMENT?** - Sexual harassment is any unwanted sexual behaviour that makes someone feel upset, scared, offended or humiliated, or is meant to make them feel that way. - Sexual harassment is a type of  [sexual violence](https://rapecrisis.org.uk/get-informed/about-sexual-violence/what-is-sexual-violence/) -- the phrase we use to describe any sexual activity or act that happened without [consent](https://rapecrisis.org.uk/get-informed/about-sexual-violence/sexual-consent/). According to the Australian Human Rights Commission, sexual harassment refers to a variety of behaviors such as leering or gazing, unwanted touching, and sexual slurs or taunts. In addition to the workplace cited in, educational institutions, public spaces, and online, sexual harassment occurs in a variety of settings. Southern Illinios University System (SIU), argued that sexual harassment can entail online or electronic media interactions, even when they occur off-site or "off the clock." Examples of actions that may be construed as unwanted sexual conduct via email, cell phone, text, Internet or Intranet posting, online comments, blog posts, social media (such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube, and Snapchat), or other electronic media include requests or demands for sex, sexually explicit or inappropriate images and videos, sexually offensive language or comments, unwanted flirting, unwanted requests for dates, and cyberstalking. **Policy Protecting Individual from Sexual Harassment:** **\[REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7877\]** **AN ACT DECLARING SEXUAL HARASSMENT UNLAWFUL IN THE EMPLOYMENT, EDUCATION OR TRAINING ENVIRONMENT, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES** Under RA 7877, work, education, or training related sexual harassment is "committed by an employer, employee, manager, supervisor, agent of the employer, teacher, instructor, professor, coach, trainor, or any person who, having authority, influence or moral ascendancy over another in a work or training or education environment, demands, requests or otherwise requires any sexual favor from the other, regardless of whether the demand, request or requirement for submission is accepted or not by the object of said act." **In a work-related or employment environment, sexual harassment is committed when:** - The sexual favor is made as a condition in the hiring or in the employment, re-employment or continued employment of said individual, or in granting said individual favorable compensation, terms, conditions, promotions, or privileges; or the refusal to grant the sexual favor results in limiting, segregating or classifying the employee which in any way would discriminate, deprive or diminish employment opportunities or otherwise adversely affect said employee **In an education or training environment, sexual harassment is committed**: - When the sexual favor is made a condition to the giving of a passing grade, or the granting of honors and scholarships, or the payment of a stipend, allowance or other benefits, privileges, or considerations; or - When the sexual advances result in an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment for the student, trainee or apprentice. **SEC 7. Penalties**. -- Any person who violates the provisions of this Act shall, upon conviction, be penalized by imprisonment of not less than one (1) month nor more than six (6) months, or a fine of not less than Ten thousand pesos (P 10,000) nor more than Twenty thousand pesos (P 20,000), or both such fine and imprisonment at the discretion of the court. **FORMS OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT** Sexual harassment can take different forms, including: verbal harassment, non-verbal harassment, physical harassment, visual harassment, quid pro quo harassment. 1. **Quid Pro Quo** One party forces the other party to offer sex in return for recruitment, promotion or salary raise within the first party\'s powers, and threatens to demote, cut the salary or even fire the second party if rejected. In Latin it means "this for that". This is usually the most blatant kind of sexual harassment. This occurs when employment decisions are based upon an employee's willingness to grant sexual favors in exchange for working benefits such as promotions, increases, preferred assignments or punishment such as being demoted or fired. This type of harassment, typically involves a harasser who has authority over the victim. According to federal guidelines, a single "quid pro quo" advance may be considered harassment if it is linked to an employment benefit. 2. **A \"hostile environment\"** is a work atmosphere in which a pattern of offensive sexual conduct is involved. The administrative rules describe it as \"Any unwelcome verbal or physical conduct that is sufficiently severe or pervasive to have the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working environment.\" An intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment is created when uninvited sexual approaches, requests for sexual favors, or any other sexual behavior has the intention or effect of materially affecting a person's ability to fulfill their job duties. Inappropriate contact, sexual remarks, and offensive items used in the workplace are all forms of sexual harassment 3. **Verbal** Derogatory sexual statements or sexual jokes frequently constitute verbal sexual harassment. Personal phone conversations, emails, messages, or other sexually explicit content; pressure to go on dates; sexually suggestive statements, jokes, or inquiries; calling an adult "girl," "hunk," "doll," "babe," or "honey"; Asking about sexual fantasies, shifting lecture talks to sexual subjects, making sexual remarks about someone's appearance, anatomy, or attire, or making kissing noises are all examples of inappropriate sexual behavior. Examples may include: - Offensive jokes of a sexual nature or sexist nature - Repeated and unwelcomed requests for sexual favors - Repeated and unwelcomed requests for dates - Excessive and unwelcomed flirting - Threats regarding adverse employment action if sexual favors are not granted - Unwelcome compliments of a sexual nature You\'ll notice this form of sexual harassment involves repetitive and excessive unwelcome conduct. An isolated verbal or written incident may not rise to the level of sexual harassment but may violate the professional workplace policy. On the other hand, if a single incident is egregious enough, such as demanding sex to keep a job, one incident may be enough for sexual harassment. The biggest thing to watch out for nowadays is technology. For example, if one employee forwards an email with a suggestive or pornographic image, it can circulate to the point where everyone in the office sees it--- even if that's not the original sender's intent. 4. **Physical** Physical harassment might be a little harder to recognize because it can sometimes be very subtle. Physical harassment, in relation to sexual harassment, is when a victim is inappropriately touched. Most importantly, the victim is touched against his or her will. Examples may include: - Touching may include massaging a person on any body part without first asking permission; Playing with a person's hair. - Caressing a person's arm, hand, or any body part in a sexual way. Making bodily contact with another person in a sexual way. - Cornering a victim with one's body. - Lewd hand gestures or other gestures meant to convey curse words. - Unwanted touching of a person or their clothing. - Frequently following or standing too close to a person on purpose. Making sexually suggestive facial expressions. - Playing music with offensive or degrading language. 5. **Visual** Visual sexual harassment is probably the hardest to spot because it's the most subjective and really requires you to put yourself in the shoes of the reasonable person. Examples may include: - Wearing clothing with offensive or vulgar language - Displaying posters or pictures of a sexual nature - Showing other people sexually suggestive text messages or emails - Drawing violent or derogatory images - someone might have a comic strip displayed at their workstation and while most people might find the joke funny, someone else might find it offensive. **PARAPHILIA** Paraphilia refers to a condition of having abnormal sexual desires. It involves recurring, intense sexually arousing mental imagery or behavior that centers around socially unacceptable practices. The term \"paraphilia\" derives from the Greek words \"para\" (which means outside of) and \"philia\" (which means loving). **Paraphilia is classified as a disorder** when it causes significant distress or poses a threat to others. It often involves a fixation on particular objects or behaviors that become essential for sexual gratification. According to the *Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5)*, to be diagnosed with paraphilia, there must be recurrent, intense paraphilic fantasies, urges, or behaviors that persist for at least six months. Additionally, these behaviors must cause significant distress or interfere with work, social, or other important areas of functioning. Diagnosis also requires that the behavior involves harm or risk to others or causes impairment in various life areas. The prevalence of paraphilic disorders is challenging to determine due to secrecy and underreporting, especially among women. Men predominantly exhibit these disorders, with masochism being a notable exception, more common in women. Many individuals with paraphilia exhibit multiple such behaviors, often beginning these fantasies before the age of 13. Partners of people with a paraphilic disorder may feel like an object or as if they are unimportant or unnecessary in the sexual relationship. **Paraphilic Disorders** 1. [**Voyeuristic disorder**](https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/mental-health-disorders/paraphilias-and-paraphilic-disorders/voyeuristic-disorder) Voyeurism involves becoming sexually aroused by watching an unsuspecting person who is disrobing, naked, or engaged in sexual activity. Voyeuristic disorder involves acting on voyeuristic urges or fantasies or being distressed by or unable to function because of those urges and fantasies. Doctors diagnose voyeuristic disorder when - People have been repeatedly and intensely aroused by observing an unsuspecting person who is naked, undressing, or engaging in sexual activity, and the arousal has been expressed in fantasies, urges, or behaviors. - As a result, people feel greatly distressed or become less able to function well (at work, in their family, or in interactions with friends), or they have acted on their urges with a person who has not consented. - They have had the condition for 6 months or more. 2. [**Exhibitionistic disorder**](https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/mental-health-disorders/paraphilias-and-paraphilic-disorders/exhibitionistic-disorder) Exhibitionism involves exposing the genitals to become sexually excited or having a strong desire to be observed by other people during sexual activity. Exhibitionistic disorder involves acting on exhibitionistic urges or fantasies or being distressed by or unable to function because of those urges and fantasies. Doctors diagnose exhibitionistic disorder when - People have been repeatedly and intensely aroused by exposing their genitals or being observed by other people during sexual activity, and the arousal has been expressed in fantasies, intense urges, or behaviors. - As a result, people feel greatly distressed or become less able to function well (at work, in their family, or in interactions with friends), or they have acted on their urges with a person who does not consent. - They have had the condition for 6 months or more. 3. [**Frotteuristic disorder**](https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/mental-health-disorders/paraphilias-and-paraphilic-disorders/frotteuristic-disorder) Frotteurism is intense sexual arousal from touching or rubbing against a nonconsenting person. Frotteuristic disorder is diagnosed when a person has acted on these sexual urges or the urges cause significant distress or impaired functioning. A doctor diagnoses frotteuristic disorder based on the following criteria: - The person experiences recurrent and intense sexual arousal from touching or rubbing against a nonconsenting person (in fantasies, urges, or behaviors). - The person has acted on these sexual urges with a nonconsenting person, or the sexual urges or fantasies cause distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. - The condition has been present for 6 months or more. 4. [**Sexual masochism disorder**](https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/mental-health-disorders/paraphilias-and-paraphilic-disorders/sexual-masochism-disorder) Sexual masochism involves acts in which a person experiences sexual excitement from being humiliated, beaten, bound, or otherwise abused. Sexual masochism disorder is sexual masochism that causes significant distress or substantially interferes with daily functioning. Most people with masochistic tendencies do not have sexual masochism disorder. Sexual masochism disorder involves the following: - People are distressed by their behavior or unable to function because of their behavior. - Acts result in severe bodily or psychological harm and even death, as can occur in asphyxiophilia. - The person has been living with the condition for 6 months or more. **Asphyxiophilia (autoerotic asphyxiation)** Asphyxiophilia is considered a subtype of sexual masochism disorder. People with asphyxiophilia partially choke or strangle themselves by applying a noose around their neck during masturbation, or they allow a partner to do so. Typically, people use articles of clothing (such as scarves or underwear) as the noose. They may attach the noose to an object in the room (such as a doorknob or bedpost). A temporary decrease in oxygen to the brain at the point of orgasm is sought as an enhancement to sexual release, but the practice may accidentally result in brain damage or death. 5. [**Sexual sadism disorder**](https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/mental-health-disorders/paraphilias-and-paraphilic-disorders/sexual-sadism-disorder) Sexual sadism disorder involves the following: - People are distressed by their behavior or unable to function because of their behavior. - They take these acts to an extreme, sometimes causing severe bodily or psychological harm or even death. - The acts involve partners who do not give their consent (nonconsenting partners). - The condition has been present for at least 6 months. 6. [**Pedophilic disorder**](https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/mental-health-disorders/paraphilias-and-paraphilic-disorders/pedophilic-disorder) Pedophilic disorder is characterized by recurring, intense sexually arousing fantasies, urges, or behavior involving children (usually 13 years old or younger). Doctors diagnose pedophilia when - People have had repeated, intense sexually arousing fantasies, urges, or behaviors involving a child or children (usually aged 13 years or under). - People feel greatly distressed or become less able to function well (at work, in their family, or in interactions with friends), or they have acted on their urges. - People are aged 16 years old or older and are 5 or more years older than the child who is the object of the fantasies or behaviors. (An exception is an older adolescent who has an ongoing relationship with a 12- or 13-year-old.) - They have had the condition for 6 months or more. 7. [**Fetishistic disorder**](https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/mental-health-disorders/paraphilias-and-paraphilic-disorders/fetishistic-disorder) Fetishism is use of an inanimate object (the fetish) as the preferred way to produce sexual arousal. Fetishistic disorder occurs when recurrent, intense sexual arousal from using an inanimate object or focusing on a nongenital body part (such as a foot) causes significant distress, substantially interferes with daily functioning, or harms or may harm another person. People with fetishes may become sexually stimulated and gratified in various ways, such as the following: - Wearing another person\'s undergarments - Wearing rubber or leather - Holding, rubbing, or smelling objects, such as high-heeled shoes People with fetishistic disorder may not be able to function sexually without their fetish. The fetish may replace typical sexual activity with a partner or may be integrated into sexual activity with a willing partner. The need for the fetish may be so intense and compulsive that it becomes all-consuming and destructive in a person\'s life. But in most people who have a fetish, their behavior does not meet the criteria for a disorder because it does not cause them significant distress, interfere with daily functioning, or harm others. 8. [**Transvestic disorder**](https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/mental-health-disorders/paraphilias-and-paraphilic-disorders/transvestic-disorder) Transvestism involves recurrent, intense sexual arousal from cross-dressing. Transvestic disorder is transvestism that causes significant distress or substantially interferes with daily functioning. Most cross-dressers do not have a psychiatric disorder. They may be said to have transvestism rather than transvestic disorder. Doctors diagnose transvestic disorder only when people are greatly distressed by or cannot function well because of their desire to cross-dress or because of interference in other areas of their lives by the time and expense spent engaging in cross-dressing. No medications are reliably effective, but psychotherapy, when needed, may help people accept themselves and control behaviors that could cause problems in their life. Doctors diagnose transvestic disorder when - People have been repeatedly and intensely aroused by cross-dressing, and the arousal has been expressed in fantasies, intense urges, or behaviors. - As a result, people feel greatly distressed or become less able to function well (at work, in their family, or in interactions with friends). - They have had the condition for 6 months or more  Characteristic                   Paraphilia                    Paraphilic Disorder                --------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  Definition Atypical sexual interest or behavior that involves objects, activities, or situations that are not part of normative sexual stimulation. A paraphilia that causes distress or impairment to the individual or involves harm to others.  Criteria  Paraphilias are defined by the nature of the sexual interests, not whether they cause distress or impairment. To be considered a paraphilic disorder, the paraphilia must cause significant distress or impairment, or involve harm to others.  Characteristics Can involve non-human objects, suffering, or non-consenting persons. Not necessarily pathological. May not cause distress or impairment. Involves significant distress or impairment. Behaviors entail harm or risk of harm to others. Diagnosable as a mental health condition.  Diagnosis Paraphilias are not considered mental disorders on their own. A paraphilic disorder is a diagnosable mental health condition under DSM-5.  Duration Paraphilic interests may vary in duration. Must be present for at least six months.  Clinical attention May not require clinical intervention if not causing distress or harm. Requires clinical attention to address distress, impairment, or risk.  Treatment Paraphilias do not necessarily require or justify psychiatric treatment. Psychotherapy (such as cognitive behavioral therapy), medication (such as SSRIs, anti-androgens), and support groups, which focuses on reducing distress and managing impulses.  Examples Fetishism, voyeurism, and exhibitionism. Pedophilic disorder, voyeuristic disorder, and exhibitionistic disorder. HOW TO RESPOND TO SEXUAL HARASSMENT? **Tell the person to stop.** Sometimes sexual harassment is the result of miscommunication, so if someone is making you uncomfortable, it's important to clearly establish your personal boundaries and comfort level. As directly and explicitly as possible, communicate that his/her behavior is offensive and unwanted. Figure out ahead of time which words would be the strongest to communicate your discomfort in a situation. Practice using your voice to deliver this message effectively. Some examples might include, "It makes me uncomfortable when you hug me. Please don't do it," or "Please don't ask me out again. I'm not interested." **Do not make excuses.** It might seem easier to make excuses like, "I have a boyfriend," or "I have plans on Friday night." But these don't address the real issue and could encourage the harasser to persist. Hold the harasser accountable for his/her inappropriate behavior and identify that behavior as sexual harassment. Don't worry about hurting his/her feelings; he/she obviously isn't worried about hurting yours. **Your body language is an important tool for communication**. Laughing or smiling can undermine what you are saying and communicate that you aren't serious. Sit or stand up straight, and look the harasser directly in the eye while speaking with a firm voice. **Remain firm and refuse to engage in a debate.** Sometimes a harasser will make excuses for his/her behavior or try to convince you that he/she didn't mean to offend you. An argument can be a way for a harasser to maintain control and manipulate you into submitting to his/her desire. **Remain calm, composed, and nonviolent**. Do not do anything that could jeopardize your safety or call your character into question. Unfortunately, victims of sexual harassment are unfairly scrutinized. Don't provide any ammunition that could be used against you. **Get away from the harasser as soon as you can.** If the person continues to harass you after you've attempted to clearly communicate your desire for him/her to stop, there could be a larger problem involving discrimination or abuse. You may need to seek assistance from a bystander. Once you are safe, ask an authority figure for help.