Module 11
How Accurate Language About Sexual Assault Supports Victims in the Criminal Justice System

Introduction

“Language can never be neutral; it creates versions of reality. To describe an event is inevitability to characterize the event."1

Begin this module with a short word association exercise. You will need a pen and paper for this.

What do the words and phrases on the short list below make you think of?

 

Take a few minutes and write down the first thing that comes to mind with each.

 

  • Sexual intercourse
  • Have sex with
  • Relationship
  • Perform
  • Fondle
  • Caress

Disclaimers and Footnotes

1. Jean Bavelas & Linda Coates, Is it Sex or Assault? Erotic versus Violent Language in Sexual Assault Trial Judgments, 10 J. Social Distress & the Homeless 29 (2001).

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