When Sexual Harassment Training Backfires

In this episode of the #NoExcuse podcast, host Guni Dias speaks with Harvard sociologist Frank Dobbin about the complexities of sexual harassment in the workplace, especially within international aid organizations. Dobbin examines contributing factors like power differentials and social isolation and critiques conventional harassment training for its sometimes counterproductive effects. Dobbin highlights effective alternatives such as allyship, bystander intervention training, and enhanced grievance mechanisms, including ombuds offices and dispute resolution processes. The discussion underscores the need for cultural change and proactive leadership to foster harassment-free environments. 00:00 Trigger Warning and Introduction 00:30 Interview with Frank Dobbin: Understanding Workplace Harassment 03:06 Power Differentials and Social Isolation in Aid Organizations 06:09 Challenges of Traditional Harassment Training 09:12 Effective Strategies for Allyship and Manager Training 14:23 Reporting and Grievance Mechanisms 19:20 Broader Spectrum of Workplace Misbehaviours 22:16 Creating a Culture Free of Harassment