The
following is a brief list of the potential pitfalls of relationships between
students and faculty, supervisees and supervisor.
* The relationships often involve one person exerting power over another.
* Seduction of a much younger person, rather than consent, may be involved.
* Conflict of interest issues often arise when the professor/supervisor
has the ability to:
o determine grades* The potential for abuse and exploitation is high because the playing field is not level.
o give or refuse recommendations
o hire or fire the student/employee
o conduct performance evaluations
o award raises or merit increases
o substantively influence colleagues for or against the student/employee
o withhold credit for a project
o award financial scholarships or academic honors
* The potential for retaliation is strong when a relationship ends.
* Other people may be affected and claim favoritism.
