Professional Policies

Purpose

This document reflects the current professional policies of the SRS. Its contents are reviewed annually by the Executive Committee. Additions or changes in administrative policies are made at the discretion of the Executive Committee.

I. Faculty-Trainee Relationship Policy

Purpose

The SRS hopes to foster constructive, collegial, and respectful mentoring relationships between faculty and trainees. This policy was developed to ensure that those participating in SRS events maintain a standard of conduct that allows for the best possible work/learning environment.

Policy Statement

Each faculty member participating in training events sponsored or supported by the Sleep Research Society is expected to maintain appropriate professional boundaries with students and other trainees. Because members of the faculty are entrusted with advising and teaching trainees, evaluating their work, and recommending the trainees to other colleagues, they are in a delicate relationship of trust and power. Amorous or sexual relationships are inappropriate in the context of educational supervision and evaluation; such relationships present serious ethical concerns to the SRS, even when both parties have apparently consented to developing such a relationship. Truly consensual relationships do not constitute sexual harassment; however, these relationships are problematic if the parties are of unequal power, because the validity of the consent can be questioned. In addition, circumstances may change and conduct that was previously welcome may become unwelcome. Furthermore, the relationship may be perceived differently by each party in retrospect.

Recipients of unwanted sexual attention or behavior should take the following steps:

1. Object and let the individual know that you want your relationship to be strictly professional.
2. Notify the director of the SRS Training Course and/or the SRS Program Chair for Trainees as soon as possible.