Vulgarity on Ghanaian entertainment blogs A qualitative content analysis

Abstract

This study explores the use of vulgar words and expressions on Ghanaian entertainment blogs and the rationale behind the use of such language by Ghanaian bloggers. Through the online disinhibition effect as the theory underpinning this study, the phenomenon of vulgar language on Ghanaian entertainment blogs is explored with sampled vulgar blog posts, and insights from some Ghanaian bloggers interviewed for the study. The study revealed that vulgarity on Ghanaian entertainment blogs mainly borders on obscenity, profanity and insults, which are mostly targeted at prominent personalities and institutions in the Ghanaian society. Additionally, Ghanaian bloggers who were interviewed noted their audience’s obsession with vulgarity, and economic benefits as the main reasons why vulgar language finds its way on Ghanaian entertainment blogs. The study concludes that Ghanaian entertainment blogs mostly employ words and expressions that are insulting, abusive and derogatory and have the tendency to incite violence. Again, vulgarity on Ghanaian entertainment blogs mostly deals with famous, recognized and prominent personalities in the Ghanaian society which can put the dignities of these people at stake. The study further recommends that the Ghanaian media policy makers including the Ghana National Media Commission and the Ghana Journalist Association come up with a code of ethics for bloggers in Ghana to help serve as a check on them.