Representing victims and victimizers: An analysis of #MeToo movement related reports. (January 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zhang, Jiayu; Sun, Chengzhi; Hu, Ying
• Is Part Of: Women's studies international forum. Volume 90(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-01
• Subjects: #MeToo movement -- Feminist movement -- Sexual assault -- Critical discourse studies -- Social actor system -- Gender domination; Women's studies -- Periodicals; Feminism -- Periodicals; 305.4
• DOI: 10.1016/j.wsif.2021.102553
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0277-5395

Abstract

Abstract: In 2017, the #MeToo movement swept across the world. This paper attempts to analyze the social context of the Japanese #MeToo movement and how the patriarchy-centered Japanese media reported on the #MeToo movement. Our study's findings are as follows: Gender domination in Japan is reflected in the gender inequality seen in political and economic spheres, and also the social consciousness of female reification. News reports reflect this. The Mainichi represented victims and victimizers in different ways and devote particular attention to the power relationship that exists between Japanese victims and their victimizers. The media represented domestic victims as weak and in need of protection. Although the #MeToo movement has struggled in Japan, it has promoted the awakening of Japanese feminists, leads to a series of feminist movements, and gives us hope of equal rights for men and women.