Gender Representation in SMS Jokes

Abstract

This research aims to investigate how language is used in a new mode of communication such as SMS jokes portraying different roles of human gender. A distinct form of ideology is constructed in SMS jokes by using certain expressions which criticize the roles of both the genders in a humorous way which helps in reinforcing the already existing stereotypes about them. The study adopted the qualitative research method and purposive sampling technique was used for the selection of SMS jokes. Through this sampling technique, 30 different gender-biased SMS jokes were selected which were received on the cell phone numbers of researchers. It is believed that only the female gender becomes the target of ridiculous humor, but this study proves that the attitudes associated with both male and female are humiliating. The findings of research reveal that jokes play a pivotal role in constructing the overall image of both the genders. The language which is used in portrayal of both male and female gender is highly subjective, derogatory, abusive, and prejudiced.