Article Title: Deconstructing Power and Gender: A Foucauldian Discourse Analysis of Biopolitics, Necropolitics, and Sexual Scripts in Feminicide in Puerto Rico.

Authors

Migdalia Marrero-LaFontaine, Pepperdine UniversityFollow

Abstract

Feminicide and gender violence cases in the last several decades in Puerto Rico have continuously increased, suggesting that this problem becomes worse as time passes. This study, therefore, focuses on identifying actionable insights that paint a picture of the impact it has on women over the age of 18 in Puerto Rico. In order to achieve this objective, the study relies on a strong theoretical framework that is made up of Foucauldian discourse analysis, necropolitics, and sexual scripts theories. One of the core findings of this research is that Puerto Rico’s colonial history and cultural norms sustain a cycle of gender-based violence that, unfortunately, in severe cases, ends in death. Furthermore, based on the research information, it is clear that structural, cultural, and institutional dynamics within the island largely influence how the public and government respond to cases of feminicide. Apart from understanding the underlying causes of the problem, the study also proposes the use of transformative justice as an alternative solution, considering punitive measures have been pushed as the cure, yet the problem persists and even worsens.

Recommended Citation

Marrero-LaFontaine, Migdalia (2025) "Article Title: Deconstructing Power and Gender: A Foucauldian Discourse Analysis of Biopolitics, Necropolitics, and Sexual Scripts in Feminicide in Puerto Rico.," The Scholarship Without Borders Journal: Vol. 4: Iss. 1, Article 4.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.57229/2834-2267.1075
Available at: https://digitalcommons.pepperdine.edu/swbj/vol4/iss1/4