Student Theses and Dissertations
Date of Award
Spring 5-23-2023
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Program of Study
Communication - Corporate Communication
Language
English
First Advisor
Allison Hahn
Second Advisor
Minna Logemann
Abstract
Untruths depicted by American media has shaped narratives about sexual assault and negatively affected the credibility of female sexual assault victims. Since women began the viral #MeToo movement in 2017, there is a need for research about the shifting sexual assault narratives in the United States. My project examines how this movement and use of social media has allowed women to reclaim narratives about sexual assault, spanning from October 2017 to April 2023. Specifically, my project analyzes ways in which the media responded to the #MeToo movement and how female created social media videos amplify sexual assault stories. I argue that sexual assault myths have normalized sexual violence towards women and admonished women for speaking out against sexual assault. This maintains society’s patriarchal power structure. In conclusion, my project, by examining the #MeToo movement and social media sheds new light on normalized sexual assault myths in American culture.
Recommended Citation
Marano, Katherine V., "Reclaiming Narratives of Sexual Assault: An Examination of the #MeToo Movement and Social Media" (2023). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/bb_etds/156
Comments
Trigger Warning: This project contains material which may be triggering and/or sensitive to some readers regarding sexual assault. Please know there are resources available. Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) offers 24/7 support by calling 800.656.HOPE (4673) or using their online chat feature at https://www.rainn.org/.