R-A-T-E Measurement tool
This mnemonic illustrates a simple measurement tool to determine whether behaviour towards others could be classified as harassment.
R
RESPECT - Is this behaviour respectful? Does this behaviour honour the dignity and worth of the person? Does the behavior recognize and appreciate differences culture, viewpoint, age, status, etc. and thus give room for the person to be themselves?
A
APPROPRIATE Is the behavior appropriate to the situation and to the relationship between the individuals?
T
TRUST Many relationships are relationships of trust, for instance the relationship between a professor and a student or between an employee and a supervisor. Is the behavior a violation of this trust?
E
EQUAL What is the power balance in the relationship? Are the individuals equals? Is the behaviour exploiting a difference in power? Would an objection to the behavior threaten the well-being of the person to whom the behavior is directed?