sk Louanne
The Collegian Advice Column
by Dr. Louanne Barton
Personal Counselor
D SOMEBODY
CALL ME?
rolimatolinMsalWa
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Dear Louanne,
I'm really angry, but I don't know what to do about it. I'm in a technical program which is
traditionally male. The first day of class my professor (who shall go unnamed) remarked that
there were several women in his class, something he apparently wasn't used to. That isn't bad,
but when he continued by saying it would be interesting to see if of us were still around by the
end of the semester, I was offended. That sure isn't encouraging. He is obviously biased, and I
wonder if it will affect his grading system.
I'd like to report him to his superiors, but then I'm afraid it will really affect my grade. That
sort of thing should have gone out with the dark ages. I guess old male chauvinists never die,
but I sure wish they'd just fade away.
Dear Insulted,
This is an example of sexual harassment referred to as the "chilly classroom
climate." You don't have to be pinched on the posterior to be a victim of sexual
harassment; however, I wouldn't recommend filing a formal complaint with the
Office of Equal Opportunity yet.
The first step is to speak directly to the professor. Use an assertive statement
that describes the situation, tells how you feel, and states how you would like
the behavior to change (no name-calling). You would say something like this:
"The other day when you suggested the women in our class might not be
around long, I was offended. I'm a good student and really motivated to be in
this program. I expect to do well in your class. I would appreciate being
recognized for my efforts and accomplishments independent to the fact that I'm
a woman."
If it is too difficult to confront the professor directly, then write him a note.
Keep a copy. Record the date, time, place, names of the people involved,
witnesses, and who said what to whom. If the harassment does not stop, then it
is time to speak to the department chairperson or the division head. It is rarely
necessary to file a formal complaint though it might make you feel better.
Here at Behrend we have two sexual harassment contacts: Mary Beth
Peterson (898-6164, Counseling and Advising Center, Reed First floor) and Dr.
Christopher Reber (898-6111, Office of Student Services, Reed Second floor).
Feel free to talk with them if you would like further guidance.
Tuesday, April 16
Wednesday, April 17
Thursday, April 18
Su vey Times
6:00 A.M. - 6:00 P.M.
Shift 1: 6:00 A.M. - Noon
Shift 2: Noon - 6:00 P.M.
Signed,
Insulted
Louanne
[~2~l tDi
Thursday, April 11, 1991