Sexual harassment as cycles of trauma reenactment and sexual compulsivity

Abstract

This article discusses relevant clinical issues of the sexual harassment behaviors faced by clinicians. Using the sexual addiction model, attachment theory, trauma research, and theory and research on incestuous behavior, sexual harassment is explained as escalating cycles of trauma reenactment. Sexually addictive behavior is the route that creates the reenactment. Relationships with a power differential at their core are opportunities for individuals to unconsciously act out unresolved incest, disturbed attachment, and bonding issues. Primary and secondary victims result from sexual harassment. The reenactments and compulsive cycles are results of patterns of behavior and are not easily modified by employment policies alone. Due to the complexity of trauma-induced addictive behavior and attachment disorders, sexual harassment patterns require extensive and multi-dimensional treatment strategies for amelioration.