Study of dental hygienists' recognition and experiences about sexual harassment in the workplace

Han-Na Oh   Young-Soon Won*   

Department of Dental Hygiene, Wonkwang Health Science University

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to examine dental hygienists' recognition and experiences about sexual harassment in the workplace and to provide the basic data for their perception improvement, prevention and coping plan about sexual harassment. Methods: A self-reported questionnaire was completed by 307 dental hygienists who work at dental hospitals and clinics in Jeollabuk-do area, a questionnaire survey was conducted from December 1 to 31, 2016. Results: The 40.7% of study subjects had the experience of sexual harassment. They were identified to have the experiences of verbal sexual harassment (29.6%), physical sexual harassment (27.0%) and visual sexual harassment (22.5%) in order. The factors affecting the experiences of sexual harassment were experience of sexual-harassment education and concept of sexual harassment. Conclusions: A customized sexual prevention education program for dental hygienists will need to be produced, not the universalized sexual prevention education. In addition, it is considered to be necessary to prepare for a program available for being sympathized and understood by all members in the workplace.

Acknowledgements

이 논문은 2016년도 원광보건대학교 교내연구비 지원에 의해서 수행됨.

Figures & Tables

Table 1. The general characteristics of the subjects (N=307)