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Published in:
26-07-2023
Social Network Analysis and Semantic Analysis of #TexasAbortionBan on Twitter
Authors: Zehui Dai, Weiwei Jiang, Colleen McNickle
Published in: Sexuality Research and Social Policy | Issue 2/2024
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Abstract
The article delves into the social network and semantic analysis of Twitter discussions surrounding the Texas Abortion Ban, implemented in September 2021. It identifies the top ten dominant users and categorizes them into journalists/news organizations, political/human rights activists, Internet personalities/influencers, and nonprofit and non-governmental organizations. The study also reveals fourteen sub-groups within the semantic network, each with distinct topics such as abortion law, women's rights, and political implications. The analysis highlights the significant role of influential Twitter users in shaping public discourse and the emotional intensity surrounding the ban. This research offers valuable insights into how social media platforms facilitate public debate on contentious issues, making it a compelling read for those interested in the intersection of social media, public policy, and activism.
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Abstract
Introduction
Starting on September 1, 2021, the state of Texas implemented a new abortion restriction referred to as Texas Senate Bill 8 (SB 8), which prohibits abortion after approximately 6 weeks of pregnancy. Despite legal challenges, the Supreme Court declined to intervene, leaving open the possibility for future public hearings or challenges.
Methods
We collected tweets containing the hashtag #TexasAbortionBan from public Twitter accounts over a 30-day period (September 1 to September 30, 2021). A total of 104,097 tweets were analyzed during this time frame. The current project employed social network analysis to study the discourse among Twitter users in relation to the #TexasAbortionBan.
Results
The current project examined the top ten dominant users within the #TexasAbortionBan network. These users were classified into four groups: journalists/news organizations, activist (political/human rights activist), Internet personality/influencer, and nonprofit and non-governmental organization. The primary topics of discussion revolved around women’s access to abortion care and their rights to make decisions regarding their bodies.
Conclusions
The findings suggest that the Texas Abortion Ban is the harshest “heartbeat” law among all the states that implemented similar legislation in 2021, and it triggered an uproar in the political discussion.
Policy Implications
The social network analysis, a computer-mediated research method, can provide valuable insights for researchers and policymakers seeking to understand a political and controversial topic, such as abortion. The Texas Abortion Ban is seen as a pavement for eventually overturning of Roe v. Wade. Understanding the discourse surrounding abortion-related topics on Twitter holds significance for women, healthcare providers, and policymakers interested in engaging in public advocacy to maintain legal abortion rights.
