A qualitative investigation of cyberspaces: Uncovering discursive constructions of sexual victimization and recovery

This thesis engages in a qualitative investigation of sexual assault service provider websites and sexual assault message boards to explore fundamental questions related to cyberspace and the linguistic constructions of sexual victimization. I use the method of critical discourse analysis to deconstruct and examine the texts made available through the selected websites and message boards. I consider the prominent and recurring frames that emerge to highlight the extent to which these virtual spaces produce and reproduce particular notions of victimization.;This research is significant as it contributes to a scholarly understanding of how victim identities are crafted and defined, and how the experience of victimization is itself conceptualized.;This thesis reveals that discursive frames, construct, categorize and limit victim identities and recovery options made available to those who have been victimized. Many of the frames promote individualized healing and negate the need to question the role that society plays in the promotion and response to sexual violence. Other constructions also amplify specific modes of recovery such as confession and a reliance on expert intervention.