Articles
Sticks and stones: How words and language impact upon social inclusion
Authors:
Kathy McKay,
School of Health, University of New England, Armidale, AU
Stuart Wark ,
School of Rural Medicine, University of New England, Armidale, AU
Virginia Mapedzahama,
CRN for Mental Health and Well-Being in Rural and Regional Communities, University of New England, Armidale; School of Social Sciences and Psychology, University of Western Sydney, AU
Tinashe Dune,
CRN for Mental Health and Well-Being in Rural and Regional Communities, University of New England, Armidale; School of Science and Health, University of Western Sydney, AU
Saifur Rahman,
School of Rural Medicine, University of New England, Armidale, AU
Catherine MacPhail
School of Health, University of New England, Armidale, AU
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.
How to Cite:
McKay, K., Wark, S., Mapedzahama, V., Dune, T., Rahman, S. and MacPhail, C., 2015. Sticks and stones: How words and language impact upon social inclusion. Journal of Social Inclusion, 6(1), pp.146–162. DOI: http://doi.org/10.36251/josi.96
Published on
02 Sep 2015.
Peer Reviewed
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