Billy Ray Cyrus is facing backlash due to leaked audio and text messages where he derogatorily refers to his ex-wife Tish Cyrus. In these messages, he calls her a “skank” and makes disparaging remarks about her past relationships.
The leaked audio, reported by Page Six, Us Weekly, and People, includes him calling either Tish or daughter Miley Cyrus “the devil’s skank.” He also criticized Tish’s appearance on the “Call Her Daddy” podcast, labeling her a liar and a fraud.
Experts in gender studies argue that such comments reflect the societal judgment women face regarding their sexual choices. These instances serve as a reminder to condemn derogatory language and analyze the cultural prevalence of slut-shaming.
‘Slut-shaming’: Why language matters
According to Meredith Raiston, a professor at Mount Saint Vincent University, the derogatory terms used against women reinforce the stereotype that women should maintain purity. Raiston states, “The language is really meant to silence women and keep them in their place.”
While male sexuality is often celebrated, women are frequently judged for having multiple partners. As Leora Tanenbaum, author of “I Am Not a Slut,” notes, only men are granted sexual agency, while women face ridicule for similar behaviors.
Raiston emphasizes that the outdated notion of purity continues to affect women negatively, stating, “It’s very problematic for women and for any hope of women reclaiming some kind of sexual equity when we’re punished for our sexuality.”
The consequences of ‘slut-shaming’ on young women
Experiencing slut-shaming can lead to severe mental health issues, including depression, bullying, and self-hatred. Shira Tarrant, a professor specializing in gender politics, describes slut-shaming as a “psychological weapon” that harms victims and shifts blame onto them.
Raiston warns that young women may internalize derogatory comments, leading them to avoid being labeled as “bad girls.” To change the narrative surrounding women’s sexuality, it is crucial to challenge slut-shaming whenever it occurs.
“We all need to think about our language and challenge it,” Raiston asserts. “It really does have an impact,” particularly when coming from influential men.
No responses yet