Is having your hair stroked considered sexual harassment?

[xneu]

I had worked at a telemarketing organization, working night shifts for 2 months. One night a gentleman whom I did not know walked behind me, in my cubicle, stroked my hair and the back of my head down to my shoulders. It really freaked me out and when I stood up to see who it was he was standing about two seats away, smiled and waved at me. I immediatey sat back down and started packing my things to leave. I had to go to the bathroom first because I was so startled I started to have an anxiety attack and almost cried. I returned to my area. Grabbed my things and left the building for the last time. I called back to speak to a trainer, who had taught my class for a week before we started calling on the floor, and was the only person I trusted who is in authority there. He said he knew who the person was and that he was harmless. I told him that I did not feel safe leaving the building at night without an escort or security guard and if I made a big deal about it, it is too easy for someone to know my schedule and I was afraid of what would happen. I walked into a parking garage every night and did not want to have to look over my shoulder every time I turned around. I quit the next day. Do I have a case, for receiving my unemployment at least?

 

[cbg]

I seriously doubt that you will receive unemployment after quitting because someone touched your hair.

You are free to apply but I wouldn't count on it.

You are SERIOUSLY overreacting.

 

[Duranie]

You way over-reacted because you are required to report it first and give the company the chance to correct the problem. Since you quit and did not complain, you probably are not going to receive unemployment now. You can talk to them and see if they will hire you back and then make the complaint against the individual that touched you.

 

[cbg]

Also, a single instance rarely constitutes sexual harassment.

 

[Rachelgilliam]

I don't think that us sexual harassment. You have to let them know it is unwelcome first. You should have said something like. "gosh you scared me! I wish you would not touch me. It really makes me uncomfortable" I've been sexually harassed, and yeah...it creeps me out now when guys flirt with me, but I have to keep my cool and not immediately pepper spray them. In the future, just say something to the person, and if it continues, file a sexual harassment complaint. Guys flirt. It happens. I am married to the most awesome guy ever, so I am never interested. Try to think of 5 ways to deal with unwanted advances so you will be better prepared in the future.