A Space for Women: Online Commenting Forums as Indicators of Civility and Feminist Community-Building

• In Event: ICA Plenary Interactive Paper/Poster Session I
  In Interactive Paper Session: Feminist Scholarship Interactive Poster Session

Abstract

Women have faced challenges when engaging in discourse online. The Internet allows individuals to engage in discourse about a range of topics, but women may not always feel welcome to participate in these public forums. Indeed, some women, including journalists, have faced hostility when presenting their perspectives online. This study examined comments in online forums associated with news articles about a recent news event: the suspension of NFL player Ray Rice after a video was released showing him punching his then fiancée in a hotel elevator. Using a critical feminist perspective, the researchers aimed to elucidate the nature of civility, feminist community building, and the contestation and reinforcement of gender norms as evidenced within the discourse. The findings show that online forums can serve as civil sites for women to share their personal stories, raise awareness about important issues, and engage in politically motivated dialogue about gender equality.

Authors

• Joy Michelle Jenkins, U of Missouri

• David Wolfgang, U of Missouri