The Language of Pick-Up Artists: Online Discourses of the Seduction Industry

This book explores the communicative practices of pick-up artists (PUAs) in an online community that uses speed-seduction practices for short-term dating and sex. It adopts a corpus-based discourse analysis approach and examines the verbal practices and narrative framing techniques used by PUAs. It also unpacks videos and reports of live interactions to study naturally occurring PUA discourse and critically reflect on the ethical considerations of working with such communities.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 218 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate world of pick-up artists (PUAs) through a corpus-based discourse analysis approach. By examining a multi-million-word corpus encompassing data from online forums, social media, informational websites, and YouTube videos, the volume offers a systematic exploration of the distinct language use within this online community. The book sheds light on the verbal practices and narrative framing techniques employed by PUAs in their interactions with women, as well as the terminology-heavy language used to promote the perception of scientific validity in their teachings. Furthermore, it unpacks videos and reports of live interactions to study naturally occurring PUA discourse from various perspectives, while also critically examining conceptual metaphors of competition and violence within this community. This book appeals to students and scholars in disciplines such as discourse analysis, corpus linguistics, computer-mediated communication, language and media, as well as those interested in the study of language use online.

Introduction:
The study of communicative practices within specific communities has gained increasing attention in recent years, particularly in the context of online platforms and social media. One such community that has captured the interest of researchers and scholars is the world of pick-up artists (PUAs). PUAs are individuals who engage in practices aimed at attracting and seducing women for short-term dating and sex. Their approaches often involve a combination of verbal techniques, storytelling, and social manipulation.

Corpus-Based Discourse Analysis Approach:
This book adopts a corpus-based discourse analysis approach to examine the communicative practices of PUAs. By analyzing a large and diverse corpus of text, the book seeks to identify patterns, trends, and linguistic features that characterize the discourse of this community. The corpus includes data from online forums, social media, informational websites, and YouTube videos, providing a rich source of information for the study.

Distinct Language Use in Online Community:
The book explores the verbal practices and narrative framing techniques that PUAs employ in their interactions with women. It identifies the specific language used to convey certain messages, such as the use of scientific jargon, references to popular culture, and the construction of narratives that promote the perception of dominance and control. The volume also examines the terminology-heavy language used in teaching pick-up to foster perceptions of scientific validity.

Unpacking Videos and Reports of Live Interactions:
In addition to analyzing textual data, the book unpacks videos and reports of live interactions to study naturally occurring PUA discourse from different perspectives. This allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the community and its practices. The book critically reflects on the ethical considerations of working with such communities, raising questions about the potential harm caused to women and the broader societal implications of such practices.

Conclusion:
This book provides a valuable contribution to the study of communicative practices in online communities. By adopting a corpus-based discourse analysis approach, the book offers a systematic exploration of the distinct language use of PUAs and their interactions with women. The volume raises important ethical considerations and sheds light on the broader societal implications of such practices. It will appeal to students and scholars in such disciplines as discourse analysis, corpus linguistics, computer-mediated communication, language and media, as well as those interested in the study of language use online.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032206295