Sexual and gender-based violence terminologies analysis of three popular Thai news publications

This research analyzes the sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) terminologies used among Thai news publications when reporting news in English and explores the appropriate terms to be used according to the existing discourses. Six identical pieces of news about SGBV, from October 2023 to April 2024, from three Thai popular news publications were selected, with the main focus on physical and sexual assaults. After identifying the similarities and differences among the 18 articles, the findings were analyzed within the context of existing discourses. It was observed that the term 'victim' was commonly used in reference to victim-survivors, while the use of passive voice was less prevalent than active voice, contrary to previous findings. This study underscores the importance of allowing victim-survivors to have the final say in how they are identified, with all parties respecting their decision. Content warning: This study addresses SGBV-related issues.