Perception of Profanity in Interpersonal Relationships

Authors

Ashley Pivaronas, Bethel University
Jessica Benham, Bethel University
Stephanie Melhaff, Bethel University

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Colloquy Undergraduate Research Journal

Abstract

Swearing is a form of language commonly used, yet its use is oftentimes viewed negatively in certain contexts (Johnson & Lewis, 2010). Swearing is an interesting form of expression because it is not a behavior typically taught or encouraged by authority figures (Thelwall, 2008). Hamilton (1989) emphasized the importance of examining the influence of perception of profanity usage by the receiver of the profanity, noting that perceived obscenity can differ from person to person. This study examined how gender and political orientation influence perception of profanity usage. Relationship to the user of the expletive, as well as the specific expletive used, were evaluated as factors in perception as well.

First Page

47

Last Page

56

Date Accepted/Awarded

5-2013

Award/Distinction

Accepted Under Peer Review for Colloquy Journal

Comments

The Colloquy Undergraduate Research Journal was published with faculty peer review by these student editors in the Spring of 2013: Cox, Brad; Fultz, Roberta; Hedges, Jared; Lewis, Stacie; Manning, Jacob; Patton, Leah; Stocker, Abby

Recommended Citation

Pivaronas, Ashley; Benham, Jessica; and Melhaff, Stephanie, "Perception of Profanity in Interpersonal Relationships" (2013). Communication Studies Student Works. 1.
https://spark.bethel.edu/communication-students/1

Terms of Use and License Information

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.