Discussion

For this week, drawing from the videos and assigned readings, you will need to answer the following two prompts and questions within. Please read the prompts clearly and carefully. Your response should be a single post with two separate sections devoted to each set of questions. Each section at minimum should be 2-3 paragraphs (so 4-6 total paragraphs minimum for the post). In addition to your original post (due Wednesday), you will need to respond to THREE classmates by Saturday – PAY ATTENTION, it is different this week. Remember in your responses to say more than “I agree” or “I disagree” – ask questions, explain what you are agreeing or disagreeing with, and why, etc…
PROMPT #1
In comparing the allegations of teachers who have been accused or charged with sexual misconduct, sexual assault, sexual battery, etc… the media response, public response and criminal trials produce drastically different outcomes for female teachers versus male teachers. In your post, please address the following:
1) In your opinion, are sexual relationships between a female teacher and a younger male student any different than a male teacher and younger female student? Think about your answer and clearly articulate your reasoning.
2) Given that the above statement is true, why do you think that female teachers are generally sentenced lighter than male teachers?
3) What, in your opinion, is the harm of constructing sexual abuse by female teachers as “less dangerous” than sexual abuse by male teachers? Is there any?

PROMPT #2
Find a comparable article in the news (must be within the last 3 months) regarding accused sexual abuse by a male teacher (and then read some of the comments – if available). Then respond to the following (including your link to the article):
1) How was the offender presented in the media (pictures, video, stories, language regarding abuse, type of crime, etc)?
2) How do you think the appearance/presentation of the offender affects society’s view on the crime committed?
3) How did people (media – coverage, general public – comments on videos/articles, etc) respond similarly or differently to each case reported (ie: male vs. female offender)?