Original Question - 60 years ago, computer terminals were showing up on desks in many industries. Adam was the division manager of a major communications company in New York City. He was always respectful of others. He was also a practical joker. He added a special routine to the company mainframe that would run only when his secretary used her access number. When she accessed the mainframe, her terminal would compliment her appearance, her hair, eyes, or dress for example. After several weeks of this, Adam told his secretary what he had done. She laughed and enjoyed the joke. Fast forward to today, would that be considered sexual harassment? Would it still be a joke or would Adam face difficulties at work? Explain.

Initial post - This subject matter is a very difficult one to cover, especially nowadays. Personally I do believe this would be a form of sexual harassment in today's society. Adam may not be trying to come off that way, and in his mind this may just be a fun joke. But this may not be the way that everyone views it. Even though the secretary seems to be kay with it, she may be too shy or scared to say or show how she really feels. Especially with how society was back then. Nowadays I feel like people are much more comfortable and confident expressing their concerns and feelings. Not only does this affect the employee directly involved, but it can also instill a stressful and unsettling work environment for other employees as well. Adam would definitely face some consequences from the HR department for his actions. Even if Adam feels like he has a good enough relationship with the employees to act like this it still is not acceptable. You never know for sure if a person is actually being truthful about being okay with this "joke", as well as it just is not a professional way to behave. Especially in a work environment. Another element that is added into this joking manner in today's society is the development of the LGBTQ community. Certain groups of people are now choosing to represent themselves as whatever they feel they are. So being very cautious of other employees thoughts and feelings is eve more important in todays world.

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