An exchange of sexual favors for job benefits is an example of which type of harassment?

• A. Quid pro quo
• B. Hostile environment
• C. Retaliation
• D. Bullying

Answer: (A)

Quid pro quo harassment happens when a person in a position of power uses the promise or threat of a job benefit to obtain sexual favors. In this case, exchanging sexual favors for job benefits directly ties an employment outcome—like a raise, promotion, or other advantage—to sexual conduct, which is the defining feature of quid pro quo harassment.

This differs from a hostile environment, which involves ongoing, unwelcome conduct that creates an intimidating or abusive workplace rather than a direct trade tied to a specific employment decision. Retaliation is about punishing someone for reporting or opposing harassment, and bullying is general aggressive behavior that may be about power but isn’t necessarily linked to job benefits in exchange for sexual favors.