A rotating panel of experts from the worlds of ethics, psychology and religion offer their perspective on the dilemmas that come with living in Southern California.

Today’s question: “Recently, grammar school boys, ages 6 and 7, in North Carolina and New York who each kissed a girl in their class were accused of sexual harassment and were suspended from school. Was this an appropriate response by the schools? If not, what should have been done? And when is the line crossed?”

Sharon Presley

Executive director, Resources for Independent Thinking, Oakland

“Sexual harassment is a serious problem that should be dealt with firmly. But justice must be served for all concerned. Suspension is only called for if the behavior is not only unwanted but persists after several warnings and a discussion with the boys about why such behavior is inappropriate. Overreaction by schools more motivated by fear of lawsuits than genuine concern for children’s welfare serves no useful purpose. It only serves to teach boys that girls are a source of unfairness while encouraging girls to have a victim mentality. Frenzied fear of lawsuits and obsessive political correctness do not teach the lessons of mutual respect and ethical behavior that our children need. Lessons that encourage empathy are far more useful.”

Maher Hathout

Spokesman for the Islamic Center of Southern California, Los Angeles

“Children should not be robbed of their childhood innocence or their period of natural exploration. Sexual harassment is sexually motivated, which is not necessarily the case in these incidents. The rigid interpretation by these school administrators is misdirected and ill-advised. Not only are they missing the target, but implanting an unhealthy obsession of sex in these virgin minds. This does not mean that any boy can kiss a girl against her will. But reprimands and education should focus on mutual respect and privacy. Privacy as a value is de-emphasized in our schools and society. We should start by teaching children that one’s privacy should not be stormed or violated by anyone, of either gender or at any age.”

Father Thomas P. Rausch

Chairman, Department of Theological Studies, Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles

“Sexual harassment involves unwelcome advances, requests or verbal conduct of a sexual nature. It is always a serious offense. But the word unwelcome is key, as is the intent. If a kiss from a 6-year-old classmate is unwelcome, the teacher should gently point that out. But to identify childhood kisses with the language of adult or teenage sexual misconduct is unfortunate in the extreme. Though probably based more on the [not entirely groundless] fear of liability than a mindless political correctness, such poor judgment can lead to neurotic guilt, fear of spontaneity and a distrust of the opposite sex. What has happened to the innocence of childhood?”