Abortion Rhetoric: The Silence Of Experience - Diane Walsh

This research project explores abortion experiences from the perspectives of a small group of women who have had them, focusing on, (5) women. The writings of Dorothy Smith (1987) have shaped the methodology used for the study. In stark contrast to theoretical accounts that frame women's responses in intra-psychic terms, my analysis claims that the problems that arise in women's lives are due primarily to the social organization of people's understanding of abortion as a moral issue. Despite the legally-sanctioned protection of abortion services, women confront the painful stigma that the decision carries with it socially. Persistent negative social attitudes still prevail in the culture, teaching women that abortion is evil and is tantamount to murder. These moral claims are organizing features of abortion experiences that directly impact the way women are silent because of the fear of condemnation. The decision not to speak about experience is not really a ‘choice’. It is a learned way of living with the abortion decision and is a social product of a particular ‘culture’ that; in effect, intimidates women. This study reveals that no matter how women rationalize their abortions to themselves (whether they are content or bothered by their decision), they tend to keep their experiences secret. This body of work provides an in-depth analysis of the practices of ruling that help to explain this silence in women's lives.

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