Date of Award

1-1-2013

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Specialization

Communication and Leadership

School or Department

School of Leadership Studies

First Advisor

Dr. John Caputo

Second Advisor

Dr. Kristina Morehouse

Abstract

This thesis critically analyzes Anthony Weiner’s defense of his image during his July 23rd, 2013 press conference, applying the theory of image restoration discourse (Benoit, 1995). The principal strategies applied by Weiner are mortification, defeasibility, bolstering, and minimization (corrective action also weaves its way in to the argument in a lesser fashion). While these strategies are generally appropriate choices, they were not deployed effectively in this situation. The discourse portrayed Weiner as not understanding of the actual exigence at play (which was the fact that his inappropriate behavior apparently continued after his earlier resignation from Congress for the same behavior). Since that earlier resignation, his credibility had been severely undermined. This discourse did not help him remedy that obstacle, and the outcome of the New York Democratic Party Mayoral primary helps confirm and illustrate this conclusion.

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