SEXUAL HARASSMENT IN THE MODELLING INDUSTRY

You don't have to be an ad or media professional to be aware that our communications world is highly sexualised these days. But how does this charged environment affect the lives of the women who give give their bodies and sexuality up for our objectification? Sexual harassment in the modelling industry is not a pretty picture!

SPEAK UP AND SPEAK OUT: SAY NO TO SEXUAL HARASSMENT (http://www.speakinupandspeakingoutfromcairo.wordpress.com/)

The well worn modelling stereotype brings images of glamour, gorgeous clothing and evenings full of champagne, however, things can get boozy backstage: under-age girls mostly work without parental supervision, agencies put lots of pressure on models to lose weight and sexual harassment is definitely not rare. The Model Alliance, a group formed to improve conditions for models, is dissolving that glossy veneer. Sure we've heard all horror stories of rampant anorexia, but the group's new survey found a slew of other problems. Only 85 models took part so the sample is small, but gives some deep insight. From the study published on Fashionista:

• Roughly a third of models have eating disorders.
• Anxiety and depression is the number one health concern and roughly 68% of those surveyed said they had suffered from both.
• 77% say they have been exposed to drugs or alcohol while at work. Some 50% have been exposed to cocaine on the job.
• Nearly 30% have been touched inappropriately on shoots and 28% say they've been pressured to have sex with someone at work.

STOP IT BEFORE IT GETS UGLY: STAND AGAINST SEXUAL HARASSMENT (http://www.ideasandtraining.com/)

It is awful, especially in a field where most girls are super young. If you feel like you are being sexual harassed, feel free to complete a Sexual Harrasment in the Modelling Industry Survey (http://www.thefashionspot.com/). Be part of the Model Alliance group and stand against sexual harassment.