Introduction to and Advances in Feminist Theory for Public Relations

This chapter introduces the development and future directions of feminist theory for public relations with goals to achieve equity in public relations practices and contributions to society. It introduces how feminist theory developed out of research on gender disparities found in public relations practice. Described in detail are the early contributions of feminist public relations scholars Hon, Aldoory, and Rakow and Nastasia. The chapter defines gender (and race) as social constructions enacted through language, communication, and action. It explains liberal, socialist/Marxist, and radical types of feminism, feminism and waves, and post-feminism. It introduces the influences of feminist public relations theory found in discourses, critical race theory, intersectionality and standpoint theories, and queer theory. The chapter presents a socio-ecological model of influences to advance public relations feminist research.