Senior Honors Projects, 2010-2019
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Date of Graduation
12-13-2019
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science (BS)
Department
School of Communication Studies
Advisor(s)
Alison Bodkin
Sharon Mazzarella
John Butt
Abstract
On August 6th, 2019 one of the biggest names in the equestrian community, George Morris, was barred from the sport for life based on sexual assault allegations. I have conducted a Social Constructionist discourse analysis of the online responses to this case. Overarching themes exposed flaws in the hegemonic ideals of both the sports world and American culture in its entirety. As the case continues to develop every day, I have adapted my research to reflect new findings and have found that Deflection, Bolstering, and Reflection have emerged as the major themes of this discourse. This method allowed me to explore the complex and nuanced responses to public sexual assault scandals and the subsequent myriad of emotions that develop.
Recommended Citation
McLoughlin, Megan, "Analyzing discourse surrounding the George Morris Ban: An ideological critique of sexual assault culture in sports" (2019). Senior Honors Projects, 2010-2019. 736.
https://commons.lib.jmu.edu/honors201019/736
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Critical and Cultural Studies Commons, Social Influence and Political Communication Commons, Social Media Commons, Speech and Rhetorical Studies Commons
