Last week, we responded to a message from a post-er who told us that addressing sexist comments is an attempt to muzzle free speech. Of course, a critical element of legal decisions about the regulation of speech is whether a comment or statement does real damage—for example, freedom of speech does not include the right to incite insurrection or yell “fire” in a crowded theater.
In fact, recent research indicates that sexist remarks change behavior and result in actual harm. For the benefit of those of you who encounter the “free speech” argument as an excuse for sexist remarks, here are brief summaries of three recent studies about the effects of sexist expression:
A 2008 study that appeared in the journal Child Development found that at least three-quarters of the girls in the study ages 12 to 18 reported having been the target of sexist comments. Among the findings was that such comments make it more likely that girls will attribute failure to their lack of ability rather than to obstacles in their environment.
A 2007 study by a researcher from Western Carolina University found that sexist jokes can lead to toleration of hostile feelings and discrimination against women. The study showed that sexist humor allows men to feel comfortable with behavioral expressions of sexism and to not fear disapproval from their peers.
A 2007 study in the Journal of Applied Psychology found that sexist comments are more likely to be directed toward women who are perceived to break traditional gender roles. The study indicated that men, especially in male-dominated professions, appeared to use harassment and sexist comments to protect their disproportionate access to power.
Those who claim that the First Amendment gives them the right to say what they like need to consider that claim in light of these studies—and the women they know (daughters, mothers, nieces, and so forth). It’s clear that if we value free speech, we’ll also take seriously the responsibility that accompanies it.
Steve
