Sexual harassment: four women describe their experiences--background and implications for the clinical nurse specialist.

Sexual harassment is receiving attention as women take a more prominent place in the workforce and academia. This article reviews the legal history and definition of sexual harassment, as well as contributing social factors. Interviews with four women victims describe the trauma of harassment and its deleterious effects. In addition, the women's reactions show how these cumulative effects may result in post-traumatic stress disorder. Experts in sexual harassment education, training, litigation, and dispute resolution comment on their experience in the field. The article proposes clinical nurse specialist role opportunities in the prevention and amelioration of sexual harassment.