UCLA

This thesis analyzes English and Spanish language materials about human papillomavirus (HPV) that includes males in its discussions. The primary method of investigation involves critical discourse analysis (CDA) of documents created and disseminated on-line by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). How is language used to define and frame gender and gender norms? Findings demonstrate that most HPV information relevant to men and boys continues to support the idea that social health issues are the responsibility of women, thus undermining the social responsibility of boys and men and reinforcing existing gendered disparities in society. An analysis of HPV documents produced by the CDC reveals gender disparities that result from particular ways in which language is used. Understanding the manner in which CDC uses language helps us to identify gender norms and biases that ultimately sustain gender disparities.