THE POLICY IMPLICATIONS OF SOCIAL MOVEMENTS: HOW #METOO CAN BRING CHANGE

Following the Harvey Weinstein sexual abuse allegations, the Twitter hashtag #MeToo launched a national conversation on the nature of sexual harassment and assault within the United States. Using a case study approach, this article presents an analysis of the impact of the #MeToo Movement on public...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published in:Sociological viewpoints 2020-01, Vol.34 (1), p.138-156
Main Author: Myers, Janel
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Allegations
Case studies
Democracy
Environmental movements
Influence
Legislation
Mass media effects
Political activism
Political power
Public policy
Sex crimes
Sexual abuse
Sexual harassment
Social activism
Social movements
Social networks
User generated content
Online Access:Get full text
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:Following the Harvey Weinstein sexual abuse allegations, the Twitter hashtag #MeToo launched a national conversation on the nature of sexual harassment and assault within the United States. Using a case study approach, this article presents an analysis of the impact of the #MeToo Movement on public policy in the states. By researching the relationship of movement-related variables to new state legislation addressing sexual harassment and assault, it becomes evident the movement lacked a direct impact. However, the significant relationship between the movement and media attention (P < .000) suggests movements do have an effect on their environment, which may then affect policy outcomes. Furthermore, the movement generated several indirect influences, which can facilitate and give rise to policy change. Future studies should allow more time for comprehensive analyses of influence and the development of research-based policy solutions.
ISSN:1060-0876
2161-7775
DOI:10.26908/3412020_017