Perceptions of equal opportunity climate in a military setting : correlates and consequences

Abstract

An array of workplace characteristics are typically associated with an increased prevalence of sexual harassment. As well, there are a number of individual differences indicating employees who are likely to be most affected by the experience of sexual harassment. A traditionally male occupation with a predominately male workforce should exhibit the highest levels of sexual harassment. Women in blue-collar positions should be most vulnerable to the negative impact.

Using a military sample of over 1800 active service members, this study examined these relationships in a military environment of the Canadian Forces (CF). Responses to the Military Equal Opportunity Climate Survey (MEOCS), the Mixed Gender Opinion Questionnaire (MGOQ), the CF Equity Attitudes scale and the Perceived Consequences of Equity scale suggest that perceptions of sexual harassment in the CF are very low, with no differences between gender and rank.

Further analysis explored the potential of attitudes toward equity to moderate the relationship between sexual harassment and the outcome measures of job satisfaction, organizational commitment and effectiveness. Attitudes towards women's place in the Canadian Forces and the belief in equal opportunity for women moderated the relationship between sexual harassment and both job satisfaction and organizational commitment.

Results are discussed within the framework of Modern-Sexism. Low levels of perceived sexual harassment, low levels of job satisfaction for female officers compared to female enlisted personnel or males of either rank, high attrition levels for females, and moderate shows of support for equity related programs all lend credence to the interpretation of a new form of discrimination, distinct from traditional forms. Recommendations are made for further exploration of the validity as well as the utility of this interpretation.