Unpacking the hashtag; the intersection of communication technology and gender-based violence: a case study of the online movement #MeToo

Details

Supervisors

Roginsky, Sandrine

Faculty

Faculté des sciences économiques, sociales, politiques et de communication

Degree label

Master [120] en communication , à finalité spécialisée: communication stratégique des organisations

Abstract

This thesis delves into the hurdles and prospects of promoting awareness and involvement in discussing gender-based violence among women from diverse backgrounds through digital movements in today's society by studying the case of #MeToo. The exploration begins with examining its historical context, followed by analyzing various forms and contexts of gender-based violence, including a discussion on gender concepts and how they intersect with online communities. The thesis argues that communication technologies play a critical social role, particularly in light of the social media revolution, which has transformed offline communication to online. It seeks to identify the challenges and opportunities presented by such channels, especially Twitter, in addressing gender-based violence and increasing awareness from a feminist studies perspective informed by Internet Studies, Critical Race Theory, and Social theories. Ultimately, this thesis contributes quantitatively to understanding how #MeToo has impacted women's recognition of gender-based violence.