The Language of Derogation and Hate: Functions, Consequences, and Reappropriation

Abstract

Over the last decades, the use of explicit derogatory language (e.g., hate speech, slurs, micro-insults) has risen in many countries. We provide an overview on blatant language discrimination, including its psychological antecedents and consequences. After presenting a working definition of derogatory language and describing its prevalence, we discuss the social functions it serves and the role it plays in identity protection, in legitimizing group hierarchies, and in establishing and enforcing group norms. Drawing from both the socio-cognitive and discursive traditions in social psychology, it is argued that the language people are exposed to and the language they employ, shape the way they think and construct reality. We also consider two ways in which targeted groups may respond to derogatory language, specifically confrontation and reappropriation. Finally, we address challenges for future research, in particular the need for more cross disciplinary research to ebb the growing proliferation of hate speech on digital media which has become a global international concern.

Language, Discrimination and Employability: Employers’ Othering and Racist Representations of Domestic Migrant Workers on Social Media

“…Cervone et al (2021, p. 84) outline five main functions served by derogatory language as identified in social-psychological research: prejudice perpetuation ; maintenance of status hierarchies and norms and role compliance (here treated as one); legitimization of violence against outgroups ; and ingroup cohesion . First, using discriminatory language about minority groups is one way to both activate and perpetuate prejudice against them.…”

“…Although we have competing versions of the employer-employee relationship, dominant groups are more likely to use derogatory language, are less likely to be at the receiving end of discriminatory practices, and are more likely to be taken seriously than minority groups (Rosette et al, 2013). This means, “the asymmetrical use of disparaging language not only reflects the existing social stratification, but it also contributes to maintaining the power differential between dominant and subordinate groups” (Cervone et al, 2021, pp. 84–85).…”

“…Future Directions: Research and Social Activism Cervone et al (2021) argue that one way for minority groups to counter derogatory language about their group is to confront the offender, and/or to reappropriate derogatory group labels. However, these means are not readily available to DMWs.…”

Challenges to Learners in Interpreting Self as Other, Post COVID-19

“…In this way, they are less than subordinate in relation to the ingroup. Through explicit derogatory language [74], they are socially isolated, feared and/or hated by the ingroup and tend to feel similarly about themselves [75]. In any case, the aim is to keep these individuals away from the ingroup and the privileges available to its members as the norm [76].…”

Subtle Linguistic Cues Affecting Gender In(Equality)

“…Accordingly, multiple linguistic cues inform about gender hierarchies, signaling the privileged position of men compared to women. Finally, language may be relevant in sustaining breadth and stability of gender beliefs and discrimination because it often operates in a subtle—almost invisible—manner with gender biases encoded at the level of syntax and likely inaccessible to an untrained eye (for a recent review addressing blatant and clearly offensive speech, see Cervone et al, 2021). Without explicit awareness of the existence of the biases, even people sensitive to gender issues may be engaged in linguistic practices that maintain rather than challenge gender arrangements.…”