The Language Lab
"The problem of violence is inextricably linked to the problem of representation." | Dr Linda Coates & Dr Allan Wade
The Language Lab provides information on the role of language in representing violence and abuse, and tools to help us use language to more accurately represent violence and other adversities. It recognises that language can be used in restrictive or liberating ways to:
- conceal or reveal violence
- obscure or reveal offender responsibility
- conceal or reveal responses and resistance; and
- blame or contest the blaming of, victims (1).
Masterclass on Language and Violence | Video
Video of the Masterclass on Language and Violence with Dr Linda Coates | Participants from the ecosystem | Participant feedback
Language Lab Resources and Tools
Download the second edition of the Language and Violence Resource Kit.
Download the second edition of The Fact Pattern - an example of improved accuracy and evidence.
Download the My Check tool for people with lived experience of violence.
Download the Checking My Practice tool for responders
Example of the ideas applied
An analysis of an account of a woman's experience of domestic violence by Practice Exchange participants from the Penrith Women's Health Centre.
In the Media
Coverage of Professor Linda Coates sharing her research at third South West Sydney Domestic Violence Conference.
1. Dr Linda Coates and Dr Allan Wade (2007), 'Language and Violence: Analysis of Four Discursive Operations', Journal of Family Violence, 22:511-522.