Performing Gender Through Language: A Case Study of Twitter Discourse by Political Leaders

Abstract

This study investigates the performance of gender identities by political leaders on Twitter, with the objectives of exploring how language is used to construct and perform gender identities, and examining the differences in language use between male and female leaders. The statement of the problem highlights the significance of understanding the role of language in shaping and reflecting gender identities and power dynamics in politics. Research questions revolve around how male and female leaders use language to perform their gender identities. The significance of the study lies in its contribution to our understanding of the complex dynamics of gender identity construction and performance in the context of political leadership on social media. This study is grounded in Judith Butler's theory of performativity. The methodology employed is qualitative, using a critical discourse analysis approach. The selected text/data consists of tweets from prominent male and female political leaders. The results show that male leaders tend to use assertive and dominant language, while female leaders use more collaborative and empathetic language, highlighting significant gender differences in language use. The epistemology underlying this study is social constructivist, and the results have implications for our understanding of the role of language in shaping and reflecting gender identities and power dynamics in politics. The study recommends future research on the performance of gender identities in different contexts, and the key findings highlight the importance of considering the role of language in shaping and reflecting gender identities and power dynamics.

Keywords: Behavioral Finance, Behavioral biases, Private pension Schemes, Individual Planning, Retirement