Final answer:
Abusive behavior aimed at one gender that is not 'sexual' in nature is generally not considered sexual harassment but can still constitute gender-based harassment, which is illegal and unacceptable.
Step-by-step explanation:
True or False: Abusive behavior aimed at one gender that is not "sexual" in nature can be considered as sexual harassment? The answer is False, strictly speaking, as sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. However, it is crucial to understand that harassment, in general, can target individuals based on various attributes including gender, it does not necessarily have to be sexual to fall under harassment. Moreover, harassment based on gender is significant and can contribute to a hostile work environment. This behavior is against the statutes regulated by the EEOC, which include protected classes such as race, national origin, religion, or age, in addition to sex.
While non-sexual gender-based harassment is not termed as "sexual harassment," it is still inappropriate and can be illegal. Many institutions and workplaces have policies to protect individuals from all forms of harassment, ensuring a safe and respectful environment. For example, hostile environment sexual harassment describes a situation where an employee encounters a workplace that is offensive, intimidating, or hostile due to sexually-based behavior, which is both a violation of organizational policies and illegal. It's also important to note that sexual harassment does not only occur within the workplace but in any setting where power dynamics and interpersonal relationships exist, such as schools and universities.