Ohio Correctional Officer Practice Exam

Which of the following describes "quid pro quo" in the context of sexual harassment?

1. An environment that is intimidating or offensive

2. Direct requests for sexual favors tied to employment benefits

3. Inappropriate comments made about someone's appearance

4. A serious instance of sexual assault

The correct answer is: Direct requests for sexual favors tied to employment benefits

"Quid pro quo" refers specifically to a form of sexual harassment where employment decisions or benefits, such as promotions or job security, are directly linked to an individual's submission to unwelcome sexual advances or requests for sexual favors. This means that an employer or someone in a position of authority is essentially saying, "You will receive this benefit if you engage in this behavior." This concept is firmly rooted in the idea that there is a direct exchange of a benefit for a sexual favor, making it a distinct and serious form of harassment within the workplace. In contrast, an environment that is intimidating or offensive generally describes a hostile work environment, which is a broader category of sexual harassment but does not directly involve the exchange of favors. Inappropriate comments about someone's appearance may contribute to a hostile environment but do not fit the quid pro quo definition as there is no specific exchange being made. Similarly, a serious instance of sexual assault goes beyond the quid pro quo concept, involving physical acts of violence rather than the negotiation of benefits for favors. Therefore, the answer reflects the precise nature of quid pro quo in the context of sexual harassment.