Thesis Chapters by Jen Crossley
The aim of this research was to explore the linguistic articulation of identity, ideology and gro... more The aim of this research was to explore the linguistic articulation of identity, ideology and group membership on pro-eating disorder websites. The study was performed using Critical Discourse Analysis, and entailed an analysis of four blog posts and their corresponding comment sections, which were selected through purposeful sampling. The study found that eating disorders are constructed by members as solutions, games, choices and lifestyles; while outsiders construct them as harmful and unhealthy. Eating disordered individuals constructed themselves as beautiful, female, skinny, in control and strong; and authors of blog posts construct themselves as myth debunkers, figures of authority, sources of advice and inspiration, and gatekeepers to the community. Outsiders to the community construct members as desperate, self-degrading, weak, selfish and helpless when faced with their eating disorders. Health care professionals are constructed as enemies, and their practices are treated with skepticism and disbelief. Other outsiders to the community are constructed as fat, unattractive, dirty, persistent and unwanted. Finally, food is constructed as the enemy, and further as a weakness.
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Thesis Chapters by Jen Crossley