A Critical Discourse Analysis of the Representation of Women in Canadian Armed Forces Policies and its Connection to Sexual Assault
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Date
2017-09-12
Authors
Vinken, Jamie
Advisor
Drake, Anna
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Waterloo
Abstract
This thesis considers the connection between the policy and culture of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), representation of women and the prevalence of sexual assault. I analyzed how the policies and discourse of the CAF contribute to the permissive environment for sexual assault within the institution. Through this analysis I have found that the policies of the CAF do not substantively represent victims and do not contribute to a change in culture. The CAF, as with any culture, is resistant to change and the outdated policies contribute to this. Policies, as a guiding factor in the behaviour of CAF members, must be updated to include clear, direct wording that is substantively representative of victims of sexual assault. Although new documentation, like Operation HONOUR has been recently released, the policies in the QR&Os and DAODs must be adjusted.
Description
Keywords
discourse analysis, policy analysis, canadian armed forces, military, sexual assault, sexual harassment