Which of the following statements about sexual harassment is correct?

• A. Any offensive behavior, regardless of content, is always considered sexual harassment.
• B. Sexual harassment only occurs if the behavior is physical.
• C. Behavior must have a sexual component to be considered sexual harassment.
• D. Verbal behavior cannot be classified as sexual harassment.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definition of sexual harassment. Sexual harassment involves unwelcome behavior of a sexual nature that creates a hostile or intimidating environment.
2. Step 2: Recognize that sexual harassment can include various types of behavior, such as verbal comments, physical actions, or non-verbal cues, as long as they have a sexual component.
3. Step 3: Evaluate each statement by checking if it aligns with the definition: offensive behavior must have a sexual element to be considered sexual harassment; it is not limited to physical behavior alone.
4. Step 4: Note that verbal behavior can indeed be classified as sexual harassment if it involves sexual content or implications.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct statement is the one indicating that behavior must have a sexual component to be considered sexual harassment.