Evaluative language in the (re)production and resistance of discourses of sexual violence on X (Twitter)

Palomino Manjón, Patricia

Resumen: This paper investigates the role of evaluative language in the (re)production and resistance of discourses concerning sexual violence on X (formerly Twitter). Drawing on Appraisal Theory (Martin and White 2005) as the analytical framework, the present paper identifies linguistic patterns that either reinforce or challenge patriarchal ideologies, practices and gendered power dynamics in society. Using allegations of sexual assault made against Brett Kavanaugh during his confirmation proceedings to the United States Supreme Court in 2018 as a case study, the analysis illustrates that evaluative language was used to (re)enact opposing discourses and (re)negotiate traditional rape scripts and experiences of sexual violence. The findings also reveal the interplay between conflicting narratives-perpetrator vs. victim-survivor-on X and how communication on this platform shapes and reflects societal attitudes toward sexual violence and aggression against women in both North American society and institutions.

Idioma: Inglés

DOI: 10.26754/ojs_misc/mj.202510725

Año: 2025

Publicado en: Miscelánea (Zaragoza) 72 (2025), 17-44
ISSN: 1137-6368

Tipo y forma: Article (Published version)