The Cross-Cultural Applicabilityof the Concept of Sexual Harassment.

Abstract

Sexual harassment is a concept which was originally formulated in the United States, but received world-wide attention following the Clarence Thomas/ Anita Hill trial. Basing my study in Brazil, I intend to look at the ways in which this idea was adopted and transformed in a country which defines sexuality in a different manner. The Brazilian conception of personal space and what is sexually charged varies greatly from the United States' culturally based definitions. During an eight week period, I will conduct interviews with Brazilian college students and faculty to see how Brazilians view the concept of sexual harassment. I will also conduct anthropological participant observation to gain insight into the different ways in which sexuality is expressed and defined.