Slut Shaming

“Slut” is a derogatory term used to degrade & shame an individual’s sexuality. More often than not, the shaming is directed at women by both men and women and serves to keep her “in her place”. The term “slut” contributes to rape culture. It is paired with the idea that some women don’t behave (“sluts”), and those women are pretty much asking for rape/harassment/assault. Though the mechanism does not operate fully consciously, the term “slut” is often used in response to perceived threat. Threatened by a woman taking control of her sexuality, jealousy, threatened by having less experience than her, feeling less desired than her, etc. It is an expression of discomfort with female sexuality on the whole. Some women have responded to this oppression by reclaiming the term. I personally think it’s better left behind us. It is not worth reclaiming because it comes from a place of hatred for female sexuality.