Consensual romantic relationships that might be appropriate in other circumstances have inherent dangers when they occur between any HMS or HSDM faculty member, fellow, or officer and any person over whom he/she has a professional responsibility, e.g., as a teacher, advisor, preceptor, or supervisor. Such relationships are fundamentally asymmetric, and are considered to be unprofessional under this policy because, among other things, they may create an impression within the Harvard community of inappropriate or inequitable academic or professional advantage or favoritism that can be destructive of the learning or working environment. Depending on the circumstances, such relationships also may be considered an abuse of authority.
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Last updated June 2023