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?