Quid pro quo refers to what concept in sexual harassment law?

• A. A condition of employment based on submitting to sexual conduct
• B. Unrelated to employment decisions
• C. A safety policy
• D. A routine performance review

Answer: (A)

Quid pro quo harassment occurs when a person in authority makes employment decisions contingent on the employee submitting to sexual conduct. In practical terms, a job benefit like a promotion, raise, continued employment, or favorable treatment is offered only if the employee agrees to sexual advances, or adverse action is taken if they refuse. This direct exchange between a workplace consequence and sexual conduct is what defines the concept.

The other options don’t fit because they don’t describe an explicit exchange tied to employment decisions for sexual favors. A policy unrelated to employment decisions isn’t about coercion for benefits. A safety policy isn’t about coercive requests for sexual conduct. A routine performance review is an evaluative process and doesn’t inherently involve demanding sexual favors in exchange for work outcomes.