A mixed methods study of sexual harassment attitudes across generational cohorts and gender and how these variables relate to prevention and intervention efforts in the workplace.

Author

Barbara A. Murray-Scales, University of Tennessee at ChattanoogaFollow

Committee Chair

Crawford, Elizabeth K.

Committee Member

Rausch, David W.; Taylor, Jessica N.; Williamson, Cindy Taylor

Department

Dept. of Applied Leadership and Learning

College

College of Health, Education, and Professional Studies

Publisher

University of Tennessee at Chattanooga

Place of Publication

Chattanooga (Tenn.)

Abstract

This mixed-methods study examines how generational cohorts (Generation X, Millennials, and Generation Z) and gender influence attitudes and responses to workplace sexual harassment (SH). Grounded in the bystander intervention model, moral responsibility theory, critical theory, and critical feminist theory, the study explores perceptions of verbal, visual, physical, and digital SH. Data were collected through a survey instrument administered to professionals in higher education and related fields, which included quantitative measures and open-ended questions to capture lived experiences. Quantitative analyses explored differences across generational cohorts and gender identities, while qualitative responses were analyzed thematically. Findings revealed varied experiences of harassment, significant emotional impacts such as fear and discomfort, and a persistent lack of trust in reporting systems due to fear of retaliation. Participants emphasized the need for more inclusive policies, clearer procedures, consistent practices, targeted programming, and leadership accountability at the people level. The study underscores the importance of comprehensive, identity-responsive prevention strategies that align policy, procedures, practices, programming, and people to promote workplace cultures grounded in civility and respect.

Acknowledgments

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the many family members, friends, professors, and colleagues who encouraged me to stay the course and finish this race. To Dr. David W. Rausch, Dr. Beth K. Crawford, Dr. Jessica Taylor, and Dr. Cindy Taylor Williamson, thank you for your unwavering support, guidance, and belief in my work throughout the dissertation process. Your mentorship has left a lasting impact. To Denise Johnson, Julie Spino, and Carshonda Harris, thank you for being my anchors during this journey. Our group chat check-ins, encouragement, and shared laughter kept me grounded and motivated. We will always be the “Doctoral Girls.”

Degree

Ed. D.; A dissertation submitted to the faculty of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in partial fulfillment of the requirements of the degree of Doctor of Education.

Date

5-2026

Subject

Sex discrimination in employment--United States; Sexual harassment--Prevention--United States; Sexual harassment of women--United States; Sex role in the work environment

Keyword

Sexual harassment attitudes; Generational cohort differences; Gender-based perceptions; Workplace harassment prevention; Bystander intervention; Organizational culture and response

Document Type

Doctoral dissertations

DCMI Type

Text

Extent

xii, 178 leaves

Language

English

Rights

http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/

License

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/

Recommended Citation

Murray-Scales, Barbara A., "A mixed methods study of sexual harassment attitudes across generational cohorts and gender and how these variables relate to prevention and intervention efforts in the workplace." (2026). Masters Theses and Doctoral Dissertations.
https://scholar.utc.edu/theses/1057