Jerk behavior and sexual assault

Based on the MeToo campaign, many would probably agree that we have a problem when it comes to how some men treat women. However, not all men treat women poorly. In fact, plenty of men are respectful of women and are actively encouraging them, promoting them in organizations and holding their opinion in high esteem. While many believe the MeToo campaign has produced some long-overdue constructive conversation and accountability for inappropriate behavior, there is a potential downside. Some experts believe the campaign has created a climate of mistrust between men and women, leaving many guys feeling fearful and anxious that a behavior with good intention could be taken out of context and come back to haunt them.

Accounts of egregious workplace behavior are suddenly all over the news — again. Harvey Weinstein and Mark Halperin are just two of the more notable figures recently identified of being guilty of such behavior. Does such behavior exist in all organizations? Not necessarily. So just stay on his or her good side and no harm done, right?

Are you absolutely certain that you understand all the nuances of the laws regulating sexual harassment in the workplace? Not only is that a bad answer; it is also a dangerous answer! It can result in you getting sued … or worse. We offer a free, online quiz to test your knowledge about the laws governing sexual harassment in the workplace.

Robert Sutton is an organizational psychologist at Stanford University. Unless otherwise noted, the facts in this piece reflect research from those works. The views expressed here are solely those of the author. CNN Reporters and radio and television hosts. Film producers.