Sexism in Language

Abstract

A broad array of language practices have been considered sexist, including terms of address that indicate the marital status of women (i.e., Miss versus Mrs.) but not men and the trivialization women's speech by the words used to describe it (e.g., as nagging or gossiping). An important debate has been whether sexism in language just reflects social beliefs and attitudes toward women or if it also helps to support and maintain sexism in society. Scientific studies have shown that language use does shape thinking and behavior in important ways. The negative impact of sexist language on women has led to non-sexist language policies in education and publishing. An ongoing issue that feminist language researchers highlight is the underrepresentation or misrepresentation of women on television and in social media.