Sexual discrimination and harassment in the hospitality industry

This exploratory study discloses and examines issues leading to sexual discrimination and harassment in the hospitality work environment. Using cluster sampling, demographic data were collected by questionnaire from a captive audience of 101 hospitality management students following 12-month international internships. Critical incidents of homophobic harassment and/or sexual discrimination were recorded anonymously online. Descriptive statistics then interpretational and narrative analyses were employed. A minority reported workplace sexual discrimination and/or homosexual harassment, all by males, on both male and female victims. Negative feelings and lack of appropriate actions taken were noted. Managers are urged to take seriously the problems identified and increase awareness of such incidents; while ‘victims’ must not be afraid to report incidents. Recommendations to tackle sexual discrimination and harassment using diversity management are made.