LANGUAGE LAB

"The problem of violence is inextricably linked to the problem of representation." (Dr Linda Coates & Dr Allan Wade)

The Language Lab features the Masterclass on Language and Violence with Dr Linda Coates. The masterclass explores the use of language in representing violence and abuse, and how language can be used 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).

1. Dr Linda Coates and Dr Allan Wade (2007), 'Language and Violence: Analysis of Four Discursive Operations', Journal of Family Violence, 22:511-522.

Masterclass on Language and Violence

Video of the Masterclass on Language and Violence with Dr Linda Coates (90mins)

Language

Throughout the Insight Exchange materials we use these terms:

‘Victim’ or 'victim-survivor' to refer to a person is perpetrating control, abuse and violence, not as an identity term. 

‘Perpetrator’ to refer to a person who is perpetrating control, abuse and violence against others, not as an identity term.

'Responder' refers to a person responding to people who are using or people who are subjected to control, violence and abuse. Explore more in the Responders Lab.

‘Violence’ is used to encompass a range of oppressive, abusive, controlling, undermining and overpowering behaviours. Explore more 'about violence and abuse'.

‘Sexualised violence’ is used instead of ‘sexual violence’ or ‘sexual assault/abuse’ (unless using a quote) because the behaviours these terms refer to are a form of ‘violence and abuse’ not a form of ‘sex’. Our intention is to draw attention to the violence and abuse without the use of the mutualising term ‘sexual' or 'sex’. Explore more in the My Dignity set.