The Unique Aesthetics of Organizational Climate that Contribute to the Prevalence of Sexual Harassment Incidents within the Restaurant Industry

Sexual harassment is pervasive globally within hospitality organizations. This conceptual study identifies organizational climate characteristics that make the restaurant work environment unique as compared to other industries. The work environment is based upon keeping the customer happy, includes gender gaps in power structures, emphasis on appearances, entrepreneurial in nature, the physical work environment, and alcohol is served. A framework for sexual harassment training must consider organizational factors, pre/post training, design, and evaluation. The study also provides a framework for sexual harassment training given these distinctive esthetics.