[Prevalence of sexualized harassment in an academic hospital - a cross-sectional survey]

Sexualized harassment, discrimination and violence (SHDV) in the workplace, during training and studies can affect people regardless of their gender. The Equality team at the University Medicine Greifswald (UMG) conducted a survey to determine the current status of such experiences within the company and to derive targeted preventive measures.

Over a period of four months, employees from various professional groups and students were asked online about their experiences and knowledge of sexualized harassment, discrimination and violence, as well as their need for support options.

The overall response rate was 11.9%. Of the total number of people surveyed, the responses of 766 were analysed, with 44.6% of these respondents stating that they had experienced SHDV in a professional context in the course of their lives. Women (48.6%) were affected more frequently than men (34.8% p < 0.001). Physical boundary violations were mainly reported by women (21.6% vs. 11.0%). 68.5% of respondents were aware of the Equality team as a contact point. Nevertheless, only 2.2% of those affected turned to this institution. Merely 4.4% stated that they had received formal training on sexualized harassment and protection options, although more than half of the respondents expressed interest in such training.

Based on the results, formal training should now be offered to UMG employees, trainees and students in order to prevent sexualized harassment, discrimination and violence in order to strengthen the handling of these issues.