Sticks and stones: How words and language impact upon social inclusion

Title
Sticks and stones: How words and language impact upon social inclusion
Publication Date
2015
Author(s)
McKay, Kathryn
Wark, Stuart
( author )
OrcID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5366-1860
Email: stuart.wark@une.edu.au
UNE Id une-id:swark5
Mapedzahama, Virginia
Dune, Tinashe
Rahman, Saifur
MacPhail, Catherine
( author )
OrcID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0614-0157
Email: cmacphai@une.edu.au
UNE Id une-id:cmacphai
Type of document
Journal Article
Language
en
Entity Type
Publication
Publisher
Griffith University
Place of publication
Australia
UNE publication id
une:18157
Abstract
Language framed as derogatory names and symbols can have implications for people and their life experiences. Within a Saussurian-inspired frame, and looking at ideas of stigma and social inclusion, this paper examines the use of language as a weapon within a social context of (changing) intent and meaning. Three examples of language use in mainstream society are analysed: 'retarded' which evolved from scientific diagnosis to insult; 'gay' as a derogatory adjective within popular culture; and, the way language around suicide is used to both trivialise and stigmatise those who are suicidal, as well as those who are bereaved.
Link
Citation
Journal of Social Inclusion, 6(1), p. 146-162
ISSN
1836-8808
Start page
146
End page
162

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