A STUDY EXAMINING THE EXTENT TO WHICH SEXUAL HARASSMENT AND ASSAULT AFFECT THE FEMALE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE AT UK MUSIC EVENTS

Abstract

Sexual harassment and assault are critical issues that are occurring at music events regularly. This study explores these issues at UK music events, motivating factors for this behaviour and the effects it has on the female customer experience. Additionally, ways in which event organisers are challenging and confronting these occurrences has been examined. This was achieved through quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection and analysis, namely two focus groups and a questionnaire. Factors believed to be responsible for unwanted sexual behaviour at music events has been uncovered as a result. Subsequently, a series of conclusions on ways to tackle this issue within music events have been drawn.