Antecedents and work-related outcomes of sexual harassment of hotel employees in Accra metropolis

Abstract

Whereas sexual harassment has been extensively studied elsewhere, the phenomenon has received limited empirical investigation in Ghana’s hotel industry. Consequently, little is known about the prevalence and consequences of sexual harassment in hotel workspaces in Accra Metropolis. This study investigated the antecedents and consequences of sexual harassment on hotel employees in Accra Metropolis, focusing on its impact on job satisfaction, urnover intentions and organisational commitment. Within a pragmatic research paradigm, 583 respondents from 55 hotels completed self-administered questionnaires after they were selected via a multi-stage sampling procedure. Univariate, biavariate and multivariate statistical tools were used to analyse the quantitative data, while qualitative data was subjected to content analysis. Results show that unwelcomed and unwanted sexual behaviours are common occurrences in hotel workplaces in Accra. Young and unmarried female workers were more likely than older male workers to be confronted with sexual harassment. Job gender context and perceived climate for sexual harassment are inconsequential to vulnerability to sexual harassment. Dependence on tipping is related to sexual harassment of employees in food and beverage department. Job satisfaction is negatively affected by sexual harassment. Male employees who experience sexual harassment are likely harbour the intentions to quit. It is recommended that sexual harassment policy be formulated and training should be provided to all stakeholders and supported with strict implementation of minimum wage agreement in hotels.