Document Type
Research Paper
Publication Date
Spring 2020
Keywords
Sexual Assault, LGBTQ Survivors, Male Survivors, Qualitative Content Analysis, #MeToo, Facebook Comments, Public Discourse
Abstract
The present study explores public perceptions of male victimization in the age of #MeToo. Utilizing qualitative content analysis, Facebook comments from popular news media pages’ breaking news posts of Kevin Spacey’s alleged assault against Anthony Rapp were analyzed for themes. After coding, six initial themes emerged: indirect blame, victim support, non-support of victim(s), perpetrator support, non-support of perpetrator, and trauma distancing. These themes resulted in three overarching findings. Facebook commenters either commented on circumstances surrounding the victim, acts or inactions taken by the perpetrator, or they distanced themselves from the trauma by commenting on happenings separate from the alleged abuse. The researchers then suggest the implications of an online world of segmented discourse for marginalized individuals in an era of growing support for survivors of sexual violence.
Recommended Citation
Young, Eleanor; Salton, Rowan; and Estes, Hanna, "Public Perceptions of #MeToo Gay Male Sexual Assault Disclosure: A Qualitative Content Analysis of Facebook Comments" (2020). Western Libraries Undergraduate Research Award. 21.
https://cedar.wwu.edu/library_researchaward/21
Subjects - Topical (LCSH)
Gays--Crimes against; Male sexual abuse victims--Attitudes; Online social networks; Internet--Social aspects
Genre/Form
student projects; term papers
Type
Text
Rights
Copying of this document in whole or in part is allowable only for scholarly purposes. It is understood, however, that any copying or publication of this document for commercial purposes, or for financial gain, shall not be allowed without the author’s written permission.
Language
English
Format
application/pdf