FIREFIGHTING WOMEN AND SEXUAL HARASSMENT

Utilizing the results from a nationwide sample of fire departments and women firefighters, this article analyzes whether there are differenc es between sexually harassed women firefighters and their non-harassed female co-workers. The findings reflect no differences on demographic and departmental characteristics. Sexually harassed women firefighter s, however, report more job stress, sexual stereotyping, and acts of v iolence. They feared coming to work and used sick leave more often tha n their non-harassed co-workers. Implications for the fire service and other male-dominated public agencies are discussed and strategies for implementing an aggressive sexual harassment policy are provided.