What does quid pro quo harassment mean?

Quid pro quo harassment refers to the situation where a person in a position of authority offers job benefits or advantages in exchange for sexual favors or other personal benefits. This means that an individual may feel pressured to comply with unwanted sexual advances to receive a favorable outcome, such as a promotion, raise, or even continued employment.

The concept underscores the power imbalance that exists in such situations and emphasizes that consent obtained through coercion or any form of manipulation is not valid. The other options, while they may describe social interactions or positive work dynamics, do not encapsulate the idea of quid pro quo, which specifically involves an exchange that compromises personal integrity and creates a hostile work environment.