0% found this document useful (0 votes)
4 views6 pages

Sexist Language and Sexual Violence Lecture Notes

Uploaded by

dbryant
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
0% found this document useful (0 votes)
4 views6 pages

Sexist Language and Sexual Violence Lecture Notes

Uploaded by

dbryant
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 6

Dr.

Bryant
Lecture Notes 11/5/2024
Sexist Language and Sexual Violence

VOTE!!! VOTE!!!! VOTE!!! VOTE!!!


Trigger warning: If you feel uncomfortable discussing this
topic, send me a note or an email
Lecture on Sexual Violence and the Role of Sexist Language
in American Society

Gender
Gender: Roles, behaviors, and identity
Introduction: Understanding Sexist Language and Its Impact

Before we delve into this, it’s important to consider how the language we use
influences our perceptions and, ultimately, societal behaviors and attitudes,
particularly around gender and power dynamics. One of the ways language shapes
our thinking is through subtle forms of sexism embedded in everyday
conversation, often referred to as sexist language.

Sexist language includes terms, expressions, or patterns of speech that reinforce


gender stereotypes or imply a hierarchy where one gender is valued over another.
 Cisgender: the assigned, biological sex you are assigned at birth
 Transgender: our gender identity is different or differs from our assigned
biological sex
 Nonbinary: genderfluid, does not subscribe to a specific gender identity
This language can manifest in various ways, from the casual use of terms like
“man up” or “don’t be a girl,” which link strength and resilience to masculinity, to
more overtly harmful language that objectifies or diminishes women’s roles and
contributions. Even seemingly benign phrases, like calling a group of adults “you
guys,” can inadvertently reinforce a gender bias by centering masculinity as the
default.
Dr. Bryant
Lecture Notes 11/5/2024
Sexist Language and Sexual Violence

Impact of Sexist Language in American Society

In American society, sexist language is widespread and often accepted as normal.


However, its effects are far-reaching. Repeated exposure to language that
trivializes women or reinforces male dominance can shape beliefs about what is
“normal” in relationships and social interactions. It can create an environment
where behaviors that undermine gender equality are tolerated, or even excused, as
“just the way things are.” Over time, these linguistic norms contribute to systemic
gender inequality in workplaces, social spaces, and even within the law.

Additionally, language has the power to influence our perceptions of victims and
perpetrators of sexual violence. For example, when headlines or news stories refer
to a case of sexual assault as a “sex scandal,” the language used downplays the
violence of the act and implies consensual involvement, which can shift public
empathy away from the victim. Similarly, words like “she was asking for it” or
“boys will be boys” deflect responsibility away from perpetrators and place undue
blame on victims, often discouraging them from coming forward.

Sexual Violence – Definitions, Prevalence, and Societal Impact

1. Defining Sexual Violence

Sexual violence encompasses a range of behaviors, including rape, attempted rape,


sexual assault, sexual harassment, and other forms of unwanted sexual contact. It is
an act rooted in power, control, and aggression rather than desire or passion.
Understanding sexual violence as an issue of power, not of attraction or desire, is
essential for dispelling harmful myths and misconceptions that often arise in public
discourse.

2. The Prevalence of Sexual Violence

Statistics show that sexual violence remains a prevalent issue in the United States.
According to data from the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, one in
Dr. Bryant
Lecture Notes 11/5/2024
Sexist Language and Sexual Violence
three women and one in six men experience some form of sexual violence in their
lifetime. In college settings, the numbers are even higher, with approximately 20-
25% of women and 6-8% of men reporting instances of sexual assault during their
college years. It’s crucial to understand that these figures only represent reported
cases; many instances go unreported due to fear of retaliation, victim-blaming, or a
lack of faith in the justice system.

3. Societal and Cultural Impact of Sexual Violence

Sexual violence has profound impacts, not only on individual victims but also on
society as a whole. Victims of sexual violence often experience long-term
psychological effects, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and challenges with
trust and relationships. These effects extend beyond the individual, affecting
families, workplaces, and communities. Economically, sexual violence also bears a
significant cost due to the loss of productivity, medical expenses, and legal fees.

The issue of sexual violence is further exacerbated by cultural narratives that


blame victims or excuse perpetrators. This is where our initial discussion of sexist
language ties in. When societal language frames victims as responsible for the
violence committed against them, or when perpetrators are portrayed as “giving in
to impulses” or “making a mistake,” it not only discourages victims from reporting
but also diminishes the perceived severity of the crime.

Readings: “The Careless Language of Sexual Violence.” And


“Audrie Pott: Sexting, Shame, and Suicide.”

Roxane Gay: “The Careless Language of Sexual Violence


Homework: Identify three key points from the article!
- Sexual language portrayed in the media desensitizes the nature of sexual
violence and the impact on its victims
- Pay special attention to Gay’s commentary on sex scandal and
nonconsensual sex when these terms are used to describe incidents of rape or
sexual violence
Dr. Bryant
Lecture Notes 11/5/2024
Sexist Language and Sexual Violence
- Identify or discuss what Gay implies about the “myths” surrounding consent
responsibility

Nina Burleigh: “Audrie Pott: Sexting, Shame, and Suicide


- Discuss Audrie Pott’s story (what happened, how did it impact her life)
- Discuss how technology [digital] has influenced and impacted sexual violence

4. Combatting Sexual Violence through Language and Policy


Change

One of the most effective ways to address sexual violence is through both
policy reform and cultural change. Policies, such as Title IX in educational
institutions, aim to create environments where sexual harassment and
violence are taken seriously. However, policies alone are not enough. A
cultural shift in language and attitudes is equally essential.

By challenging sexist language and encouraging people to use language that


respects and empowers individuals regardless of gender, we can begin to
shift societal attitudes. Small changes, like reframing how we discuss
relationships, teaching young people about consent and respect, and
promoting inclusive language, all contribute to a culture where sexual
violence is less tolerated.

5. How We Can All Help

• Education and Awareness: Educate yourself and others about the


issues surrounding sexual violence and the ways language
influences societal attitudes.
• Promote Respectful Language: Encourage inclusive language that
avoids reinforcing harmful gender stereotypes.
• Support Victims: Listen to survivors’ stories with empathy and
without judgment. Supporting victims and creating an environment
Dr. Bryant
Lecture Notes 11/5/2024
Sexist Language and Sexual Violence
where they feel safe to come forward is vital.
• Advocate for Stronger Policies: Support policies and initiatives
that aim to reduce sexual violence, including comprehensive sex
education that addresses consent and respect.

Conclusion

Language reflects and shapes our world. The way we talk about gender,
relationships, and even acts of violence carries weight. By understanding the
impact of sexist language and actively working to shift our societal
language, we take an essential step toward reducing the prevalence and
acceptance of sexual violence. Let’s commit to fostering a culture that not
only condemns violence but also creates an environment where all
individuals feel respected, valued, and safe.

Last Point: Preparing for the final draft


Prompt: Where does this social issue stand in American
society right now in its various forms and what is the path
toward progress in the future?

Your essay’s title should be centered and should hint at the essay’s dominant idea, its thesis.
Paragraphs should be indented. Try to pay attention to the thesis statement – your key point for
the entire essay. For any kind of analysis essay, the thesis statement is your overall central point
about the issue that you’re analyzing. The thesis statement is most effective at the end of your
intro paragraph, and topic sentences should lead the body paragraphs. Check for transitions
between paragraphs.

Here are some tips to help you improve your essay transitions:
Dr. Bryant
Lecture Notes 11/5/2024
Sexist Language and Sexual Violence
1. Use transition words and phrases: Such as "however," "on the other hand," "moreover," "in
addition," "likewise," "conversely," and "similarly." These words help signal to the reader that
you're switching topics or expanding on a point.
2. Repeat key words and phrases: Repeating a word or phrase from the previous paragraph in the
opening sentence of the next paragraph connects the two ideas and helps guide the reader
through your essay. Just be careful not to overdo it!
3. Parallel structure: Use parallel sentence structures to link two related ideas. For example, you
can use a series of phrases or clauses that have the same grammatical structure.
4. Make sure your ideas have a logical order: Ensure that your paragraphs are organized in a way
that allows thoughts to flow naturally from one to the next. This might involve rearranging some
paragraphs or modifying your points slightly.
5. Start with a topic sentence: Each paragraph should start with a clear topic sentence that
summarizes the main idea you'll be discussing in the paragraph. This helps guide the reader and
sets the stage for the transition.
6. Focus on themes or ideas: Rather than just moving from one specific example to another, use
broader themes or ideas to connect your paragraphs. This can help create a smooth transition
between paragraphs that may be discussing different examples.
7. Use questions or statements to introduce new ideas: Sometimes, a rhetorical question or a
short statement can be a powerful way to transition between paragraphs and provide a sense of
anticipation for the upcoming argument.
8. Revise and edit: Writing is a process, and often our first drafts don't have the strongest
transitions. Keep revising and editing your essay to spot areas where you could improve the flow
between paragraphs.
9. Read your essay out loud: Sometimes, reading your work aloud can help you pick up on
awkward transitions or areas where more clarity is needed. This can help you get a sense of how
your arguments connect and how they might be improved.
It's essential to be mindful of the overall flow and cohesion of your essay. Transitions not only
improve readability but also help your reader follow your train of thought. Paying close attention
to these elements will ultimately strengthen your essay and make it more compelling. Good luck!

Thank you for your attention.

You might also like

pFad - Phonifier reborn

Pfad - The Proxy pFad of © 2024 Garber Painting. All rights reserved.

Note: This service is not intended for secure transactions such as banking, social media, email, or purchasing. Use at your own risk. We assume no liability whatsoever for broken pages.


Alternative Proxies:

Alternative Proxy

pFad Proxy

pFad v3 Proxy

pFad v4 Proxy