Linguistic Sexism: An Analysis of the Written Passages of the Students of University of Sargodha

Abstract

Language is a dynamic phenomenon which not only manifests changes in society but also
contributes to such changes. The use of non discriminatory language is part of the
dynamic process and an ideal yet to be achieved but our current use of language reflects
a patriarchal world. The present work attempts to analyze the written passages of the BS
level students of University of Sargodha with particular reference to linguistic sexism. It
aims to expose the use of sex biased and discriminatory terms by the students in their
written work. The study particularly focuses on the usage of gender exclusive pronouns in
the written tasks. The theoretical framework for this research has been derived from
Anne Pauwels who conducted a research on Australian academics and educators in
2000. Seventy-two students participated in the study. Both quantitative and qualitative
data methods were used for the analysis of the pronouns used by the student. The results
showed that the students used high level of linguistic sexism in their written passage; they
were least aware of the renderings of Feminist Linguistic Reform that suggests the use of
gender inclusive or non-bias terms; and males were the norm makers and language
regulators while females had accepted their hegemony.